Wike Vows Arrested Vandals Will Face The Law, Commends Security Agencies and Nigerians
Wike further assured that the government would pursue and prosecute not only those directly involved in the vandalism but also the buyers and users of the stolen manhole covers and other public infrastructure. He labeled their actions as economic sabotage that endangers lives and vowed to hold all culprits accountable.
The Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, disclosed in a statement on Monday that security agencies had arrested over 50 suspects for vandalism and theft of manhole covers within the FCT. Additionally, 25 vandalized manhole covers were recovered in the operation, which underscored the Federal Capital Territory Administration's (FCTA) zero-tolerance stance on criminal activities.
Commending the swift actions of the security agencies, Wike described their collaborative efforts as "fantastic" and reassured FCT residents that the government is committed to protecting their lives and property.
The Minister also lauded Nigerians for their patriotism in condemning the vandalism, emphasizing that safeguarding public infrastructure begins with citizens. "These amenities belong to Nigerians, and it is their responsibility to protect them," he said.
Wike urged FCT residents to continue leveraging social media positively to expose criminal activities, as they did in the case of the stolen manhole covers. He pledged that the government would act promptly on credible information provided by the public.
"Those stealing and buying public amenities are Nigerians themselves; they live among us and are known. It is, therefore, crucial for patriotic citizens to expose them even before they commit their criminal acts," he added.
The Minister’s firm stance reflects the FCTA's commitment to tackling the menace of vandalism and ensuring the safety and functionality of public infrastructure across the capital.
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