The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has expressed concerns over the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Lagos State Government and the Belstar/ENKA consortium, citing a lack of transparency and public involvement in the process.
The MoU, aimed at rehabilitating and expanding Lagos’ water infrastructure, was announced by the government as a step toward improving water supply across the state. However, CAPPA says the agreement was finalised behind closed doors, without public consultation or legislative scrutiny
”That this agreement was conceived and signed in secrecy, then simply announced, is an affront to democratic governance,” said CAPPA Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi.
The organisation raised key questions about the identity and track record of the contractors, the scope and cost of the project, the role of the Lagos Water Corporation and the possibility of future water privatisation.
CAPPA also expressed concern over the involvement of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), warning that such foreign-backed deals often prioritise corporate profit over public interest.
Calling the MoU “deeply troubling,” CAPPA demanded that the Lagos State Government, publish the full text of the agreement; clarify the project’s financial and operational terms and commit to keeping all water infrastructure publicly owned and controlled.”
”Water is not just a commodity—it is a human right. Decisions affecting its access and affordability must be open, participatory, and accountable,” the group stated.
CAPPA urged the government to halt any moves toward privatisation and reinvest in strengthening public water systems through transparent, citizen-focused governance.