Wike Vows to Punish Vandalism of Public Infrastructure to the Full Extent of the Law
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has warned that individuals caught vandalizing public infrastructure, specifically those involved in the theft of sewage manhole covers on Abuja’s highways, will face severe legal consequences. Wike emphasized that the prosecution of these vandals would serve as a deterrent to others.
The minister also issued a stern warning to buyers and users of the stolen manhole covers, stating that they too would be arrested and prosecuted for economic sabotage and endangering the lives of Nigerians.
In a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike commended security agencies for their swift and effective response to the vandalism, calling their joint efforts “fantastic” and reassuring the people of the capital that their safety and property are a priority.
He also praised Nigerians for their patriotism in speaking out against the vandalism, stressing that protecting public amenities is a collective responsibility of the citizens who both own and use these resources.
Wike stated, “Those involved in stealing and trafficking public infrastructure are Nigerians themselves. They live among us, and their identities are known. It is crucial for patriotic citizens to help identify and expose them before they can commit these harmful acts.”
So far, security forces have arrested approximately 50 individuals suspected of stealing manhole covers in the FCT, and 25 of the stolen covers have been
recovered.
