Authorities in Abuja have intensified their fight against infrastructure vandalism, with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arresting seven suspects accused of stealing manhole covers and underground cables in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The arrests, which occurred over the weekend, highlight growing concerns over attacks on critical national assets.
The NSCDC, tasked with safeguarding public infrastructure, announced the operation through its acting spokesperson, DSC Monica Ojobi. Speaking on Tuesday, Ojobi revealed that the suspects were apprehended during separate raids in Central Area and near the Presidential Villa, following weeks of increased surveillance.
Caught in the Act
Five of the suspects were caught red-handed near Constitution Avenue in Central Area while attempting to dismantle manhole covers and steal armoured cables under the cover of darkness. The suspects, identified as Nafiu Ibrahim, 19; Shefiu Sadiq, 21; Mohanzam Muktar, 20; and Yunusa Ma’aruf, 19, all hail from Katsina State.
The security team recovered significant evidence, including two manhole covers, underground cables, two diggers, and two vehicles— a Toyota Carina and a Toyota Corolla— used to transport the stolen materials.
In another operation near the Presidential Villa, two individuals were caught vandalizing concrete reinforcement rods meant for drainage systems. The suspects, Haruna Yahaya, 20, from Kano State, and Haliru Sanusi, 22, from Katsina State, were apprehended before they could flee with the stolen items.
A National Menace
The NSCDC FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, condemned the actions of the vandals, labeling the acts as “barbaric and evil.” He emphasized the need for urgent action to curb such crimes, which pose significant threats to public safety and economic stability.
“This is absolutely unacceptable, it is barbaric and evil, and it must stop immediately,” Odumosu declared. “We are not backing down on our quest to bring an end to this ugly trend. If they have decided not to repent, we will continue to change tactics and re-strategize until we succeed.”
The Commandant highlighted that stolen materials such as manhole covers and cables often find their way into unregulated markets, particularly the scrap metal industry. He called on authorities to introduce stricter regulations and enforce harsher penalties to deter vandals and disrupt the sale of stolen goods.
Public Cooperation Needed
Odumosu also urged residents of the FCT to actively participate in protecting public infrastructure. “We appeal to residents to support us by providing credible intelligence to safeguard critical infrastructure,” he said. “It is a collective responsibility to protect what belongs to all of us.”
While investigations into the suspects’ activities continue, the Commandant reassured the public that the NSCDC remains committed to ensuring the safety of Abuja’s infrastructure. He noted that the arrest of these suspects demonstrates the effectiveness of the command’s intensified patrols and surveillance.
Economic and Safety Concerns
Vandalism of public infrastructure has long been a challenge in Nigeria, with severe economic and safety consequences. The theft of manhole covers, for example, poses significant risks to pedestrians and motorists, while cable theft disrupts essential services like electricity and communication.
The federal government has previously decried the rising cases of infrastructure vandalism, which cost billions of naira annually. Authorities have warned that the menace not only drains public funds but also hinders national development.
In the FCT, where the population continues to grow, the pressure on infrastructure has made it even more critical to protect public assets. The NSCDC’s latest arrests highlight the urgent need for collaborative efforts to tackle this issue head-on.
The Role of the Scrap Metal Market
Security experts have consistently pointed to the scrap metal market as a key enabler of vandalism. Stolen items like cables, rods, and manhole covers are often sold to scrap dealers for quick cash, creating a lucrative illegal trade.
Odumosu called for tighter regulation of the market to close off this avenue for vandals. “We must tackle this problem at its root,” he said. “If there are no buyers for stolen materials, these crimes will significantly reduce.”
A Broader Security Strategy
The NSCDC’s intensified efforts come as part of a broader national strategy to safeguard public infrastructure. Security agencies have been tasked with not only arresting vandals but also dismantling criminal networks that facilitate the trade of stolen goods.
While the recent arrests are a positive step, authorities acknowledge that lasting success will require a combination of enforcement, public awareness, and policy reform. The NSCDC has promised to continue its efforts, adapting its strategies as needed to stay ahead of vandals.
A Warning to Vandals
As the NSCDC ramps up its surveillance and enforcement activities, Odumosu issued a stern warning to would-be vandals. “The era of impunity is over,” he said. “Anyone caught tampering with public infrastructure will face the full wrath of the law.”
With investigations ongoing, the seven suspects will likely face prosecution, serving as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar acts. Meanwhile, the NSCDC has reiterated its commitment to protecting Abuja’s infrastructure and ensuring that the city remains safe for its residents.
