RIVERS HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY READS RIOT ACT TO MANHOLE COVER THIEVES, WIRE MESH THIEVES

By Precious Ahiakwo

The Chairman adhoc committee on the removal of manholes, Victor Oko- Jaja is advocating for stiffer punishment for manhole covers and fencing wire mesh thieves by amending and activating relevant sections of the Rivers State Public Works and Utilities Protection Law No.9 of 2012.

The Chairman adhoc committee on the removal of manholes, Victor Oko- Jaja made the call while presenting the report of the committee on the floor of the State House of Assmbly in Port Harcourt.

The Committee recommended that the Rivers State Public works and protection law 2012 be amended as well as write to the Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara to constitute the public utilities protection committee as enshrined in the law.

The committee also recommended that a task force for the protection of public utilities should be set up in conjunction with CDCs and youth group in the 23 Local Government Areas.

The Lawmaker representing Bonny constituency further stated that the recommendations if carried out would address the menace of stealing of manhols covers in the state

The Deputy Leader of the House, Hon. Linda Somiari Stewart added that the recommendations would help reduce the issues of stealing of manhole covers in the state.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule ruled that defaulters would be arrested to serve as scape goats.

Meanwhile, Chairman of National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers in Rivers State Anayo Ogbu had during the meeting of the Adhoc Committee with the association assured that any dealer who accepts stolen materials would be made to pay a fine and be suspended for a period of time.