The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has raised alarm over the increasing incidents of vandalism and theft affecting its infrastructure nationwide.
During a recent visit to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) headquarters in Abuja, NRC Managing Director Freeborn Okhirie voiced his concerns, highlighting the significant challenges posed by these criminal activities.
Mr Okhirie praised the NSCDC for its relentless efforts in safeguarding Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), which have led to the apprehension of several individuals involved in the theft of railway sleepers.
Despite these efforts, he lamented that the NRC continues to face substantial losses due to ongoing vandalism across the country.
“Rail tracks are still being vandalised, and the number of perpetrators is rising despite numerous arrests,” Mr Okhirie stated.
He described the situation as an “Organised conspiracy to commit economic sabotage” and called for a united front among key stakeholders and security agencies to address the issue effectively.
Mr Okhirie also urged the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible for these acts, emphasising the importance of securing infrastructure that serves the public.
In response, NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi revealed that the corps had impounded over 20 trailers loaded with stolen railway sleepers and arrested numerous suspects involved in these crimes.
However, he expressed frustration with the slow pace of prosecuting these offenders.
Mr Audi assured that the NSCDC would intensify its efforts to curb vandalism while also pledging to enhance the corps’ disciplinary measures against any personnel found undermining their collective mission.
Additionally, he requested support from the NRC to improve the welfare of officers assigned to protect railway infrastructure.