Benue Govt Warns Against Vandalism, Sets Up Task Force To Protect Public Assets
The Benue State Government is taking a tougher position on the destruction of public property, warning that people caught vandalising government facilities, utilities and billboards will not be allowed to get away with it.
The warning comes as the government raises concern over what it described as the deliberate destruction of public assets in different parts of the state.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Chief Solomon Iorpev, gave the warning in a statement issued on Monday, saying the government had received reports of public utilities and billboards being destroyed by suspected vandals.
According to Iorpev, the reported acts of vandalism were not only damaging public property but could also undermine the development efforts of the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
He described those behind the destruction as “criminal and retrogressive elements” who were deliberately working against the progress being made in the state.
The commissioner made it clear that the government would not accept vandalism under any excuse, stressing that anyone found responsible would face the law.
Benue govt sets up task force
As part of efforts to stop further destruction, the state government has constituted a dedicated task force to monitor, protect and secure public utilities and billboards across Benue State.
Iorpev said the task force would work closely with security agencies to track down individuals involved in the destruction of public assets.
The team is also expected to help identify and apprehend suspected vandals and ensure that those found culpable are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The move, according to the commissioner, is part of the government’s broader commitment to protecting public infrastructure and creating an environment where legitimate businesses and investments can thrive.
Government vows to protect investments
Iorpev further said the administration remained committed to the rule of law and the protection of both public and private investments that contribute to the growth and development of Benue State.
He assured residents, investors and other stakeholders that the government was prepared to protect their legitimate activities and investments from criminal elements.
The commissioner also appealed to residents across the state to remain alert and pay attention to activities around public installations.
He urged anyone who notices suspicious movements or activities around public utilities and other government assets to report them promptly to security agencies or the newly established task force.
‘Offenders will be brought to book’
The government maintained that it would not stand by and watch individuals destroy public property or engage in activities capable of threatening the peace and development of the state.
Iorpev said the government would deploy the necessary machinery to tackle vandalism and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“Let it be clearly understood that this administration will not fold its arms while criminal elements destroy public assets and threaten the peace and progress of our state.
“The full machinery of government will be deployed to clamp down on such elements, and offenders will be brought to book without fear or favour,” he said.
