The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has reported the arrest of 12 individuals suspected of vandalism during the recent nationwide hunger protests in Abuja.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NSCDC spokesperson CSC Samuel A. Idoko detailed the incidents involving the suspects.
Three of the individuals were apprehended while attempting to vandalize infrastructure at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja. They were caught after scaling the stadium’s fence. When the suspects saw the approaching officers, some of their accomplices fled the scene.
The statement also highlighted another incident in Jabi, where four suspects were arrested for trying to damage streetlights. These arrests were made by the NSCDC’s routine patrol teams, who were actively monitoring the city’s infrastructure and public spaces during the protests.
Additionally, a scavenger, locally known as “baban-bola,” was detained early in the morning, around 3:30 a.m., on the newly commissioned Wuye Bridge in the Mabushi area. The scavenger was found wandering and behaving suspiciously. When questioned, he was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for his presence at such an unusual hour.
The FCT commandant issued a strong warning to individuals involved in vandalism and other disruptive activities, stressing that such actions pose a serious threat to national assets and public infrastructure. He emphasized that vandalism undermines societal progress and will not be tolerated.
The NSCDC is committed to taking decisive action to prevent and address any threats to the country’s development and security.
Dr. Odumosu, the commandant, called on all residents of the FCT to actively participate in protecting critical national assets. He urged people to report any suspicious activities to the NSCDC, noting that everyone has a role in safeguarding public infrastructure. He emphasized that protecting these assets is a collective responsibility that involves all citizens.
The commandant also appealed to the youth in the capital city to choose dialogue over destruction when addressing grievances. He pointed out that damaging public property only causes further harm to the community and disrupts public life. The NSCDC encourages peaceful and constructive ways to express concerns and resolve issues.
In light of the ongoing protests, the NSCDC FCT commandant reassured residents that their safety remains a top priority.
He encouraged everyone to continue with their daily activities without fear, as the security situation is being closely monitored. The commandant expressed confidence that the situation would be managed effectively and that the safety and security of the public would be upheld.
