Ogun State Government to Form Special Taskforce to Combat Vandalism and Theft of Public Infrastructure

In response to the increasing criminal activities, vandalism, and theft of public infrastructure in some parts of the state, the Ogun State government has announced plans to set up a special taskforce. This initiative will include representatives from security agencies, local government officials, community leaders, and traditional rulers across all 20 local government areas of the state.

Babatunde Adesina, the Special Adviser/General Manager of the Ogun State Public Works Agency, made this announcement while speaking to the press in Abeokuta on Monday. Adesina explained that the decision was motivated by the growing concerns of criminals, particularly those posing as scavengers, who are involved in the theft of public infrastructure.

“What informed our decision to set up this special task force is the recent surge in criminal activities across the country, where individuals disguised as scavengers have been stealing public infrastructure,” Adesina stated.

He assured that the government would not allow such illegal activities to continue, emphasizing the importance of protecting public assets. “As a responsive government, we will not fold our arms and allow anyone, under any guise, to destroy and steal public infrastructure,” he added.

Ogun State Announces Plans for Taskforce to Tackle Criminal Activities Affecting Public Infrastructure

Adesina highlighted the critical role that infrastructure plays in the development of the state and affirmed that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun places a high priority on infrastructure projects. He further reiterated that the governor is committed to providing opportunities for the citizens of Ogun State through infrastructure development.

“The Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is doing everything possible to create opportunities for our citizens through infrastructure development, and he will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone caught stealing public facilities,” he stressed.

Adesina also provided updates on ongoing infrastructural improvements, noting that efforts were underway to repair roads across the state. In the Abeokuta metropolis, potholes in certain areas would be addressed, and in the Ijebu axis, pothole patching on the Mobalufon-Efinrin-Imowo road to Lagos/Ibadan Garage had been completed. Additionally, in the western part of the state, pothole repairs were finalized on the Ansarudeen-Oju-Ore and Ilo-Awela-Toll gate roads.

Ogun State Sets Up Special Taskforce to Protect Public Infrastructure from Vandalism and Theft

In closing, Adesina emphasized the need for public education on maintenance culture, urging motorists and road users to take responsibility for the upkeep of roads and other public facilities. He believes that fostering a maintenance culture among the populace will ensure the sustainability of public infrastructure.

The new taskforce, set to deploy across Ogun State, aims to bolster the security framework and safeguard the state’s infrastructure, ensuring that criminal activities related to the theft and vandalism of public property are effectively curtailed.