A foreign contractor was recently arrested by the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) for vandalizing streetlights in Abuja.
The contractor, whose name was not disclosed, allegedly engaged in this destructive behavior to secure contracts for himself.
Felix Obuah, the AMMC Coordinator, revealed this information on October 29, after conducting an inspection of ongoing streetlight repairs and maintenance. Obuah expressed disappointment at the level of vandalism, stating that most areas had been affected, with some undergoing intervention work by his team.
“The minister of FCT has given us marching orders to ensure Abuja is lit up,” Obuah said. “We’ve inspected 18 out of 21 lots and found widespread vandalism. However, I’m impressed with my team’s progress, especially in restoring light on Yar’adua Way and Jabi areas”.
Obuah said that high-level contractors, including expatriates, were involved in sabotaging the government’s efforts. “We’ve arrested a prominent expatriate contractor with full evidence. Our report will be submitted to the minister, and those involved will face the law”.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has previously vowed to blacklist erring contractors who go back on their agreements. The Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, has also directed security agencies to arrest streetlight vandals.
