The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Olusola Odumosu, has delivered a firm caution to individuals involved in the rampant vandalism of critical national infrastructure, urging them to cease their actions or face legal consequences.
In an interview with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Odumosu emphasized that the NSCDC is prepared to prosecute any individuals apprehended for vandalizing public properties. Despite the Corps’ efforts in apprehending culprits through intelligence gathering and security surveillance, Odumosu expressed concern over the persistent rate of vandalism.
Calling for stricter penalties from the courts for those involved in vandalism, Odumosu stressed the importance of deterring unrepentant criminals in the FCT. “There is no room for anyone who wants the efforts of the government of the day to be futile,” he declared. “The Federal Government is striving to ensure the FCT is beautiful, well-equipped, and secure. We cannot allow those driven by greed to steal from citizens and the government.”
According to intelligence reports, scavengers known as ‘Baba Bola’ are primarily responsible for many instances of vandalism in the territory, prompting the NSCDC to intensify its focus on this group. “Their activities in the FCT are gaining dangerous momentum,” Odumosu warned. “The command will increase surveillance on them and curb their criminal activities.”
He further assured the public of renewed efforts to raid some of the scavengers’ hideouts within Abuja and its suburbs. Odumosu urged NSCDC personnel to carry out their duties professionally and emphasized the importance of apprehending and prosecuting anyone caught engaging in vandalism.