Alarming Rise in Public Infrastructure Theft in Abuja

The theft and vandalism of public infrastructure in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, have reached alarming levels, posing serious threats to public safety and government investments. The removal of manhole covers has become widespread, creating hazards for pedestrians and motorists.

This issue extends beyond manhole covers to include the theft of bridge rails, railway tracks, underground cables, solar street lights, and other public facilities. The stolen materials are often sold in makeshift scrap markets known as "pantaker markets." The existence of these markets raises concerns about the complicity of buyers who may knowingly purchase stolen goods.

The article criticizes successive administrations for not adequately addressing this problem and calls for collaboration among government agencies, police, and civil defense authorities to combat the theft of public infrastructure.