By Divine Sam
The rising cost of sachet water in Jalingo, Taraba State, has sparked public outcry, with residents calling on the state government to urgently intervene. The price of sachet water has reportedly reached 50 Naira per sachet, a significant increase compared to neighboring states like Adamawa and Gombe, where it is still sold for as low as 20 Naira or two for 50 Naira.
Frustrated by the soaring prices, residents have urged the government to investigate the practices of water distribution companies in the state. They have called for accountability and regulation, including questioning the chairman of the Sachet Water Producers’ Association. Some individuals, like Musa Ahmadu, have expressed concerns that the state government has failed to check or regulate the activities of water manufacturers, especially in Jalingo.
In contrast, some sachet water producers have defended the price hike, attributing it to the increasing costs of petroleum products, which have affected the price of materials used in production.
Given the broader economic challenges, such as rising costs of living, residents have urged the state government to take action to prevent exploitation by a few producers, and ensure that the prices of essential commodities like water remain affordable for the public.