In an unyielding effort to illuminate and secure Nigeria’s capital city, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has issued a directive to crack down on criminals who are vandalizing streetlights in Abuja.

Dr. Peter Olumuji, the Secretary of the Command and Control Centre at the Department of Security, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), revealed in an interview that the FCT Minister has prioritized the restoration of streetlights as a key agenda to enhance the ambience of Abuja, aligning with the vision of a distinguished capital city.

Despite ongoing endeavors to restore and ensure the functionality of streetlights across the city, vandals have been targeting the solar-powered facilities in various areas, disrupting the efforts to illuminate the city. The Department of Security Service under FCTA has received reports of vandalism, predominantly occurring during the night. The miscreants have been specifically tampering with the solar-powered streetlights, including their batteries, solar panels, and other essential components.

Expressing his disappointment, Mr. Olumuji emphasized the necessity of safeguarding the public assets funded by taxpayers. He reiterated that the criminal actions of a few individuals should not undermine the collective benefits of well-lit public spaces, emphasizing the crucial role of streetlights in ensuring the safety and mobility of the city’s residents. In response, the FCT Minister has instructed the security agencies, including the Police Commissioner and the officer in charge of critical infrastructure, to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators actively.

Amid the plans to replace the vandalized streetlights, Mr. Olumuji urged the residents to take ownership of the installed facilities by promptly reporting any suspicious activities to the security agencies. Stressing the pivotal link between proper illumination and enhanced security, he highlighted that a well-lit environment acts as a deterrent for criminal activities, thereby safeguarding lives and property.

The resolve to combat the vandalism of streetlights in Abuja demonstrates a commitment to preserving public infrastructure and enhancing the living conditions of the city’s inhabitants. With these concerted efforts, the vision of a beautifully lit and secure capital city moves closer to realization.

This report is derived from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).