Sahara Reporters, via its official X handle, has announced the arrest of individuals suspected of stealing sewage manhole covers along highways in Abuja. These arrests mark the beginning of a larger operation by security agencies to apprehend accomplices, including buyers of the stolen covers.
Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant (Public Communications and New Media) to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday. According to Olayinka, the arrests align with the directive of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who has declared zero tolerance for the vandalism of public infrastructure.
“As directed by the FCT Minister, relevant stakeholders are working tirelessly to put an end to this act of vandalism perpetrated by criminal elements. The public will be updated on the progress of this operation in due course,” Olayinka stated.
Minister Wike, expressing outrage over the theft, lamented the recklessness of those who remove manhole covers for monetary gain, endangering the lives of road users. He described the act as “devilish” and vowed that the government would spare no effort in ensuring that all perpetrators, including their collaborators, face the full wrath of the law.
“It is disheartening that while the government invests public funds to provide essential amenities for Nigerians, some criminally minded individuals undermine these efforts by stealing and selling such amenities,” the Minister said. “Even more shocking is the willingness of certain individuals to buy these stolen items, disregarding the danger their actions pose to others.”
The Minister also applauded the patriotism of a vigilant citizen whose video recording of the crime went viral, sparking public outrage and prompting swift action from authorities. “We appreciate the effort of this patriotic Nigerian. His dedication to exposing wrongdoing is the kind of civic responsibility we need to build a better nation,” Wike added.
As the FCT intensifies efforts to safeguard public infrastructure, Minister Wike urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. He emphasized that collective action is crucial to ensuring the safety and functionality of public amenities in the capital city.
The crackdown on the theft of manhole covers is part of Wike’s broader agenda to restore order and accountability within the FCT. Security agencies have vowed to leave no stone unturned in bringing all offenders and their enablers to justice.
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