SEO Riders:
– Lagos water infrastructure MoU transparency concerns
– CAPPA challenges Lagos-Belstar/ENKA water agreement
– Public accountability in Lagos water sector deals
Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has raised concerns over the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Lagos State Government and the Belstar/ENKA consortium for the rehabilitation and expansion of the state’s water infrastructure. CAPPA argues that the agreement lacks transparency, as it was finalized without public consultation or legislative oversight, leaving many details undisclosed. The organization questions the selection process of the contractors, the specific projects involved, and the financial terms of the deal, emphasizing the need for public accountability in matters affecting essential services like water supply.
CAPPA also expressed apprehension about the involvement of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) in insuring the project, citing past instances where foreign-backed water projects led to increased costs and reduced access for local communities. The group urges the Lagos State Government to disclose full details of the MoU and ensure that any agreements prioritize the public interest, maintaining water as a public good rather than a commodity.
