Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has vowed that all those arrested for vandalising sewage manhole covers on Abuja highways will face the full weight of the law as a deterrent to others.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike affirmed the government’s zero tolerance for criminality, promising that both the vandals and their buyers would be prosecuted for economic sabotage and endangering public safety.
The FCT Minister praised the security agencies for their swift and decisive actions, which led to the arrest of 50 suspects and the recovery of 25 stolen manhole covers. He described their collaboration as “fantastic” and reassured residents of Abuja that their lives and property are secure under his administration.
“Those stealing and buying amenities meant for the use of Nigerians are Nigerians themselves. They live among us and they are known. It is therefore important that patriotic Nigerians begin to expose them even before they carry out their devilish acts,” Wike stated.
He also commended Nigerians for using social media effectively to raise awareness about the issue and urged continued vigilance in safeguarding public amenities.
“Safeguarding public amenities is first and foremost the duty of Nigerians, who are the owners and users of these amenities,” Wike noted.
The Minister promised prompt government action on public concerns and called on Nigerians to expose those engaging in acts of vandalism and theft, reiterating that such crimes jeopardise public safety and infrastructure.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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