By Becky Momodu
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has expressed concern over the increasing theft of metal gully inlet covers across Abuja, warning that the vandalism could worsen flooding in the nation’s capital.
The Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, raised the concern during an inspection of the ongoing city-wide desilting and drainage-clearing exercise along the Airport Expressway.
Dauda explained that the metal covers were designed to prevent large debris and other materials from entering underground drainage systems.
He said their removal by vandals allows refuse and other objects to enter the drainage channels unchecked, increasing the risk of blockages and flooding.
“When vandals steal these covers, it’s like stealing from yourself as a taxpayer,” he stressed.
The Acting Executive Secretary said the problem was particularly concerning at a time when the FCTA was intensifying efforts to clear and restore drainage infrastructure following recent flooding incidents in parts of Abuja.
He disclosed that the FCDA was exploring the use of alternative materials with little or no significant recycling value as replacements for steel and cast-iron covers.
According to him, the move is aimed at reducing the incentive for vandals to steal the covers while ensuring that drainage infrastructure remains functional.
Dauda also warned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels, noting that waste entering uncovered gully inlets could obstruct underground drainage systems and reduce their capacity to discharge stormwater.
He said the FCTA would continue to take measures to protect public infrastructure and mitigate flood risks across the Federal Capital Territory.
He appealed to residents to cooperate with the Administration by protecting public infrastructure and reporting acts of vandalism and other activities capable of undermining the city’s drainage system.
