THE Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has vowed that those responsible for vandalizing and stealing transmission cables, which plunged the FCT into darkness, will face severe consequences.
During a media chat yesterday evening, a visibly angry Wike disclosed that several suspects had been arrested in connection with the crime.
He emphasized that the perpetrators would not be charged with theft but with economic sabotage, highlighting the seriousness of their actions.
According to the minister, the vandals are jeopardizing the stability of the nation’s capital and will face harsh penalties. He assured that the suspects would remain in legal custody until convicted.
Wike stated, “They vandalized and stole cables, leaving over 60% of Abuja in darkness. This is sabotage! By the grace of God, security agencies are on top of the situation. We’ve arrested some suspects, and I assure you, those involved will face justice, serving as a deterrent to others.
“We won’t charge them with stealing but with economic sabotage. Enough is enough. No patriotic citizen can tolerate this.”
He also called on FCT residents to assist in safeguarding the capital by reporting any suspicious activities.
Last Friday, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) attributed the widespread power outage in Abuja to vandalism of its 132kV transmission line and underground cables.
Affected areas include Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Maitama, Lifecamp, Asokoro, Mabushi, and parts of the Presidential Villa, home to President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.