Wike Vows Arrested Vandals Will Face the Law, Commends Police and Nigerians

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has vowed that individuals arrested in connection with the removal of sewage manhole covers on highways in Abuja will face the full consequences of the law. This, he said, would serve as a deterrent to others engaging in similar criminal activities.

Wike also assured that the government would ensure all buyers and users of the stolen manhole covers, as well as other vandalized public infrastructure, would be arrested and prosecuted for economic sabotage and endangering the lives of Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Monday by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister, it was revealed that at least 50 suspects had been arrested for the theft of manhole covers within the FCT. Additionally, 25 stolen manhole covers had been recovered, demonstrating the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) commitment to combating criminality, particularly the vandalization of public amenities.

Wike praised the security agencies for their swift and effective response, calling their actions “fantastic” and reassuring FCT residents that their lives and property were secure. He also commended Nigerians for their patriotic efforts in speaking out against the vandalism and emphasized that protecting public amenities was a shared responsibility among the citizens.

The Minister further encouraged Nigerians, particularly FCT residents, to continue using social media constructively, as they did in reporting the manhole cover thefts. He reiterated that the government would always act promptly in response to such reports.

He stated, “Those stealing and buying amenities meant for the use of Nigerians are Nigerians themselves. They live among us and are known. It is therefore crucial that patriotic Nigerians begin to expose them even before they carry out their criminal acts.”