The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has declared that vandals arrested by security agents in connection with the removal of sewage manhole covers on highways in Abuja will be made to face the full wrath of the law.
Wike explained that such a measure would serve as a deterrent to others.
The minister also warned that all buyers and users of the vandalised manhole covers and other vandalised public infrastructure will be arrested and prosecuted for economic sabotage and putting the lives of Nigerians at risk.
This was contained in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, on Monday.
He commended the security agencies for their prompt and decisive actions while describing their collaborative efforts as “fantastic” and a further assurance to the residents of the capital territory that their lives and properties are protected.
He also commended Nigerians for showing patriotism in speaking out against the vandalisation, adding that “safeguarding public amenities is, first and foremost, the duty of Nigerians, who are the owners and users of the amenities.”
Wike said: “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.”
About 50 suspected vandals have been arrested for theft of manhole covers within the FCT.
Twenty-five vandalised manhole covers have been recovered by security agents.
