By Esther Ososanya
Luxury Meets Leakage
Abuja’s highbrow Asokoro district, home to state government lodges, embassies, and churches, is grappling with a growing sewage crisis that residents say threatens public health and undermines the prestige of the capital’s elite zone.
Untreated wastewater has been seen flowing freely across key junctions, including the ECOWAS secretariat area and near the prominent Catholic Church along Yakubu Gowon Crescent. The spill extends to the gates of Niger and Sokoto State Government lodges, trailing past driveways, sidewalks, and residential streets.
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“This is a major health threat, and it’s right opposite government houses,” lamented Yusuf Zubairu, a concerned resident. “If senior officials paused and made one phone call, this would be fixed. But they just drive by.”
Accidents and Odour Worsen the Mess
In one of the worst-hit spots, stagnant black water has eroded road edges and reportedly caused a burst car tyre last week. Pedestrians now navigate cautiously to avoid splashes from passing vehicles, while others hold their noses to escape the unbearable stench.
A catechist at the nearby Catholic Church, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the issue has persisted despite temporary evacuation attempts. “A truck came two weeks ago to draw the sewage water. We thought it was fixed. But the waste returned after a few days this time was worse,” he said.
Neglect in Plain Sight
Eyewitnesses said municipal trucks have been spotted collecting refuse bins nearby but ignoring the open sewage that runs parallel. “It’s not hidden,” one resident noted. “If FCT environment officials drive through here daily, then they’ve seen it. So why ignore it?”
The root of the leak appears to be either a blocked drainage system or a collapsed sewage line. However, residents say the silence from the authorities points to deeper institutional neglect.
“This is not just a case of bad infrastructure,” said another resident. “It’s about systemic disregard for maintenance, even in the seat of power.”
Rising Health Concerns
Environmental health experts warn that prolonged exposure to stagnant sewage can increase the risk of waterborne illnesses such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. The location of the overflow within a densely populated and politically sensitive zone makes swift intervention even more urgent.
The public should give us a little time – Officials
When contacted on June 20, 2025, the Head of the Information Unit at FCT PRO Environment, Janet Peni, confirmed via WhatsApp that the matter had been reported to her office.
“We are aware, and something is being done,” she wrote. “The public should be patient and give us a little time.”
Residents Demand Action, Not Promises
Despite assurances, frustration continues to mount. Residents are demanding not just a temporary evacuation but a comprehensive fix to the broken system.
“This is Asokoro, not a slum. If this can happen here, then no area is safe,” one respondent said, summing up the growing sense of betrayal in a neighbourhood that represents the heart of Nigeria’s capital authority.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
