NEWS
Abia State Govt Warns Against Manhole Cover Theft, Unapproved Speed Bumps on Public Roads
Abia State Govt Warns Against Manhole Cover Theft, Unapproved Speed Bumps on Public Roads
By @TheKELVINATOR, The Eyes Opener News | November 10, 2026
The Abia State Government has issued a stern warning against the removal, theft or tampering with manhole covers and the unauthorised construction of speed bumps on public roads, cautioning that such practices pose serious threats to public safety and the durability of road infrastructure.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
The Commissioner condemned the vandalism of public infrastructure, particularly the removal of manhole covers, describing the act as a criminal offence capable of exposing unsuspecting residents and road users to avoidable accidents and other dangers. He warned that anyone apprehended engaging in such activities would face prosecution.
Every second brings Nigerians closer to exercising their democratic right and shaping the future of our nation.
Exercise your democratic right responsibly, peacefully and lawfully.
He consequently called on residents to take collective responsibility for protecting public infrastructure and promptly report incidents of vandalism to the appropriate security agencies to enable swift intervention and enforcement.
Channel
Prince Kanu also raised concerns over the unauthorised construction of speed bumps and road barriers by individuals and communities, stressing that such interventions must receive prior approval from the Ministry of Works. He explained that obtaining the necessary authorisation would ensure that installations conform to approved engineering specifications and do not compromise road safety or accelerate the deterioration of public roads.
Contributing to the briefing, the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Don Otunchere Oti, reinforced the government’s position, describing the independent construction of road bumps and speed breakers without official approval as unacceptable.
He explained that communities interested in having speed bumps installed within their localities must formally approach the Ministry of Works for assessment and authorisation.
According to him, the ministry would inspect the proposed locations, determine whether the installations were necessary and provide the required technical supervision to guarantee compliance with established standards.
The Works Commissioner further disclosed that the state government could independently investigate locations identified as accident-prone and, where necessary, install appropriate traffic-calming and road safety measures.
The government reiterated the importance of responsible public conduct and community cooperation in safeguarding public infrastructure, maintaining road quality and ensuring safer roads across Abia State.
DO YOU WANT TO WHISTLEBLOW, REPORT FRAUD, THEFT OR INJUSTICE OR INTIMIDATION? SEND US YOUR STORY/REPORT TO NEWSDESK@MEDIATODAY.NG
