The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance policy on vandalism, vowing that individuals arrested for stealing sewage manhole covers on Abuja highways will face strict legal action.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike emphasized the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) commitment to making offenders serve as deterrents to others.
Targeting Thieves and Buyers Alike
The Minister also assured the public that those buying or using stolen manhole covers would be apprehended and prosecuted, describing their actions as economic sabotage and a direct threat to public safety.
“We will not tolerate any form of vandalism or the trade in public assets. Those involved in these criminal acts will face severe consequences,” Wike said.
Arrests and Recoveries
Thanks to collaborative efforts with security agencies, over 50 suspects have been arrested, and 25 vandalized manhole covers have been recovered. Wike lauded the swift action, calling it “fantastic” and reassuring residents of the FCTA’s focus on public safety and infrastructure protection.
Public Vigilance and Digital Activism
Wike commended Nigerians for leveraging social media to expose the thefts, encouraging them to continue using digital platforms to report such activities.
“Those stealing and buying amenities meant for public use live among us. Patriotic Nigerians must expose these individuals before they carry out their devilish acts,” he stated, adding that actionable information shared online would receive prompt government attention.
Call to Action
The Minister reiterated that safeguarding public amenities is a shared responsibility, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
The FCTA’s stringent measures aim to secure critical public infrastructure, ensuring their functionality and longevity. The administration has warned that anyone caught vandalizing public assets or participating in their illicit trade will face the full wrath of the law.
By prioritizing public safety and infrastructure integrity, the FCTA continues to set a firm precedent against criminal activities in the nation’s capital.
