The Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory is actively pursuing individuals believed to be behind the theft and destruction of sewage manhole covers in Abuja.
Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the FCT Minister, confirmed the developments through a statement issued on Sunday. According to Wike, efforts are underway to track down those responsible for selling the stolen covers, including their accomplices.
An anonymous individual expressed concern about the rising incidents of manhole cover vandalism in the FCT highways via a TikTok post under the handle @savvarkmedia360, urging Wike to take action. In response, the minister assured that the relevant agencies were being mobilized to halt the ongoing vandalism and emphasized that the public would be kept informed with updates on the situation.
Wike voiced his disapproval over the alarming trend where some individuals are removing sewage covers from highways and selling them, endangering the lives of motorists. He reiterated the FCT Administration’s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice.
The minister also extended his gratitude to the Nigerian who recorded and shared the video of the vandalism, recognizing it as a commendable act of patriotism. He emphasized the importance of citizens taking a stand against such illegal activities, stating that it is reassuring to see ordinary people becoming actively involved in addressing this problem.
“The FCT Administration is deeply committed to resolving this issue and safeguarding the city,” Wike affirmed. “This problem extends beyond mere theft; it is a matter of public safety, as the removal of manhole covers poses a significant risk to road users.”
When reached for comment, the Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Command, Superintendent of Police Josephine Adeh, confirmed the arrest of a suspected vandal and the recovery of seven stolen manhole covers.
