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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The replacement of the sewage manhole covers that were removed by vandals as ordered by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
In a statement by Senior Special Assistant (Public Communications and New Media) to FCT Minister, Lere Olayinka, he disclosed that in a decisive move against vandalism, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) arrested several suspects involved in the theft of sewage manhole covers from highways in Abuja.
He said authorities have identified Abuja Steel Company as a key recipient of stolen sewage manhole covers from Abuja highways. Located along Abuja-Kaduna Road, the company has had “exhibits of interest” seized and is under investigation for its role in the theft and melting of these covers.
He added that recent arrests by security agencies have led to valuable information regarding other buyers involved in this vandalism.
Olayinka in the statement titled: “Update on Vandalisation of Sewage Manhole Covers on Abuja Highways”, he said: “One iron smelting company, Abuja Steel Company, has been identified as one of the alleged receivers of the stolen manhole covers.
“The company is located along Abuja – Kaduna Road, and ‘exhibits of interest’ have been recovered from the company and are in custody of the Police.
“Further investigations going on as to the company and others’ involvement in the removal, purchase and melting of the manhole covers.
“Recalled that it was made public yesterday that arrests and recoveries were made by both the Police and NSCDC.
“The arrested persons are helping the security agencies with useful information about the buyers of the vandalized infrastructure.
“Also, as directed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, replacement of the manhole covers that were removed by the vandals commenced on Sunday .”
Wike had expressed his dismay over the situation, stating,”It is disheartening that while the government spends public funds to provide amenities for Nigerians, some criminally minded individuals remove these amenities and sell them, disregarding the danger their actions pose to fellow citizens.” He emphasized that these acts are not merely thefts but serious safety issues that endanger citizens.
The Minister commended the citizen who recorded and shared the video that led to these arrests, calling it a “demonstration of patriotism” that is crucial for societal change.
“The effort of this individual demonstrates the patriotism our country needs. It is through such actions that we can collectively tackle societal vices and build a safer, more secure community,” Wike added.
Wike assured the public that relevant stakeholders are working diligently to eradicate this vandalism and promised to keep citizens informed about further developments.
