The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has vowed to pursue severe legal consequences for individuals involved in the theft of sewage manhole covers along Abuja’s highways. Wike emphasized that those arrested, including those involved in purchasing or using the stolen covers, would face serious prosecution to deter such criminal activities.
In a statement released by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the FCT Minister, Wike condemned the theft as a form of economic sabotage that also endangers lives.
“Protecting public amenities is primarily the responsibility of the citizens, who are the rightful users of these resources,” Wike said, urging the public to remain vigilant.
He warned that those engaged in these criminal activities are betraying their fellow citizens and risking the safety of the general public.
Wike promised that authorities would continue to arrest and prosecute all individuals involved in the theft and vandalism of public property.
“I assure residents of the FCT that we will pursue the apprehension and prosecution of everyone involved,” he declared.
The FCTA’s commitment to tackling this menace was evident earlier this week when at least 50 suspects were arrested in connection with the theft of manhole covers. Police also recovered 25 stolen manhole covers, as well as other stolen public items, such as solar streetlights and construction materials.
In response to the arrests, Wike praised the efforts of the security agencies for their swift and decisive action, calling their collaborative efforts “fantastic.”
He further reassured residents that the government is dedicated to protecting public safety and ensuring that the territory remains free from criminal activities.
Wike also acknowledged the crucial role of citizens in identifying and exposing wrongdoers, noting that many of the suspects are residents of the city.
He expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their increasing awareness and patriotism, especially in denouncing acts of vandalism.
“We are committed to responding promptly to the concerns of the public,” Wike said, referring to the heightened community vigilance, particularly via social media, in the wake of the recent thefts.
The theft of manhole covers has caused a significant safety concern across the city, with numerous open holes posing dangers to both motorists and pedestrians. The FCTA has expressed alarm over this growing threat, while the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) described the situation as “unfortunate” during a recent inspection of affected roadways.
The FCT Police Command has vowed to continue its crackdown on these criminal activities, with Commissioner Olatunji Disu revealing that the arrested suspects were part of a broader network selling stolen manhole covers to scrap dealers.
The police have also recovered vehicles and tools used in the illegal operations from key hotspots around the territory.
Wike’s pledge to take strong legal action signals the FCTA’s firm stance against the vandalism and theft of public assets, with a clear warning to those engaging in such illicit activities that they will face the full weight of the law.
