By 
Abdul-Kadir Abdullah 

In recent times, we have been confronted with disturbing reports that paint a worrying picture of our collective future. From the brazen theft of rail clips essential for the safety of our railways, to the callous vandalism of transformer cables that plunge entire communities into darkness and the destruction of road slabs for their iron rods.  These acts of sabotage against public infrastructure are becoming alarmingly common.

On the 9th day of November, 2024, it was reported by the Premium Times as revealed according to the report by the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED) in Plateau State,  that over 80-Transformers were vandalized and looted within 10-days resulting in power outage within some parts of the state.

A similar issue was reported by the Business Day Newspaper on March 30, 2025, that bridges vandalism has become as escalating concern in Lagos and some other cities in the country with railings and other structural components frequently stolen or damaged.

The Whistler also reported on March 6, 2025, that operatives of the Isokoko Division, Lagos State Police Command arrested two suspected vandals caught removing iron rods from concrete roadside barriers in the Ile-Zik area of Lagos.

It's a disheartening reality that the very amenities designed to improve our lives, enhance our connectivity, and power our progress are being systematically dismantled by a few. What is often overlooked in these acts of destruction is that public property is precisely that: public. It belongs to all of us. 

The roads we drive on, the electricity we rely on, the rails that transport goods and people, these are investments made with taxpayer money, or sometimes, out of the generosity of individuals and organizations.

Consider the ripple effect of such actions. When railway components are stolen, it does not just inconvenience commuters; it poses a direct threat to lives and goods, potentially leading to catastrophic accidents. 

When transformer cables are vandalized, it's not just about a temporary power outage; businesses are crippled, essential services are disrupted, and the daily lives of families are thrown into disarray. 

The destruction of road infrastructure makes travel hazardous, increases vehicle maintenance costs, and hinders economic activities. Such attitudes not only undermine the immense effort and resources invested by the government but also deeply discourage philanthropic individuals and organizations who embark on projects out of genuine goodwill.

Why would anyone continue to invest in improving our shared spaces if those investments are immediately stripped away or destroyed? This cycle of construction and destruction is unsustainable and a significant drain on our national resources, diverting funds that could otherwise be used for new projects, education, healthcare, or other vital services.

It is time for a fundamental shift in our mindset. We must recognize that public infrastructure is not an endless resource to be plundered, but a shared asset to be protected. Every bolt, every cable, every slab is a testament to our collective aspirations for a better society. Vandalism is not a victimless crime; its victims are every citizen who relies on these services, every business that suffers losses, and every future generation deprived of essential amenities.

Let us appeal to our conscience, to our sense of community, and to our understanding of shared responsibility. Let us embrace an attitude of ownership and stewardship over our public properties. Report acts of vandalism, discourage those who engage in such destructive behaviour, and advocate for the preservation of our collective wealth.

The government, as well as generous individuals and organizations, are working tirelessly to build a better future for us all. It is our civic duty to meet their efforts with respect, responsibility, and a renewed commitment to preserving the infrastructure that serves as the backbone of our progress. Let's protect what truly belongs to all of us.