Authorities in Nigeria’s capital have launched a renewed crackdown on vandalism of public infrastructure, warning drivers who damage streetlight poles that they risk arrest and prosecution.
The Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) raised concern over the rising number of cases in which motorists—often in hit-and-run incidents—destroy critical infrastructure.
Commandant Olusola Odumosu told journalists in Abuja that the trend posed both safety and financial challenges. “We cannot allow individuals to continue destroying government property without consequences. Offenders will be traced, identified, and prosecuted,” he declared.
Residents have been asked to act as whistle-blowers by recording vehicle registration numbers when such incidents occur and submitting them via the NSCDC’s emergency lines or social media accounts. The corps said it was collaborating with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) to identify culprits using number plate databases.
Odumosu acknowledged that total eradication of vandalism may be unrealistic but insisted the new measures would significantly curb the menace. He emphasised the need to “make scapegoats” of reckless drivers to deter others.
Beyond enforcement, the NSCDC has also been liaising with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to replace damaged installations, often deploying its own resources to recover vandalised poles.
“Protecting critical national assets should not be the sole responsibility of security agencies,” Odumosu said, appealing to Abuja residents to join in safeguarding infrastructure.
The commandant reiterated that the corps would continue to strengthen collaboration with sister agencies to ensure that vandals are caught. “Anyone intending to tamper with these facilities should be prepared to face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
