BY ISHARO ODAFE
THE Delta State Government has declared a zero-tolerance stance on vandalism, sending a strong message to individuals who sabotage and destroy public infrastructure. The government said that such acts will no longer be tolerated.
The warning was issued by the Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, who addressed journalists in Asaba shortly after a court session involving Mr. Sunday Emmanuel, a defendant facing trial for allegedly vandalizing the drainage of the newly constructed Ebu Bridge, situated along the Asaba–Ughelli Expressway.
According to the Attorney-General, the defendant was alleged to have unlawfully vandalized parts of the bridge’s drainage system and removed embedded iron rods ,whi ch are government -owned infrastructure intended for public benefit.
The matter, according to him, has been adjourned to July 23, 2025 for hearing while the defendant was remanded to custody pending the hearing of the case.
The Attorney-General condemned what he described as “mindless acts of vandalism,” and called on citizens to collaborate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities to security operatives.
“It is the collective responsibility of all Deltans to safeguard the infrastructure and public utilities painstakingly provided by government for their benefit,” he stated. “The cost of replacing these assets is not just financial; it delays progress, affects communities, and hampers service delivery.”
Reaffirming the state government’s unwavering resolve under the MORE Agenda to deliver sustainable infrastructure, Ohwovoriole, SAN, noted that protecting these investments was crucial for the socio-economic advancement of the state.
He warned would-be offenders to desist immediately, stressing that beyond legal consequences, the ripple effects of such actions were far-reaching, undermining the quality of life in communities and slowing down developmental strides.
As the state intensifies efforts to deliver more capital projects across its communities, this recent prosecution marks a renewed chapter in the government’s resolve to ensure accountability, rule of law, and responsible citizenship.