Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for the implementation of stringent laws to effectively address crimes in the territory.

During a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike expressed his concern over the current penalties, stating that they were insufficient to deter criminal activities. He highlighted the issue of criminals vandalizing solar-powered street lights in the FCT, emphasizing that the existing penalty of N30,000 (Nigerian Naira) was not enough to discourage offenders.

Wike pointed out that if a vandal were caught and only required to pay a fine of N30,000, they would simply pay the amount and resume their criminal activities without any real consequences. He proposed the need for legislation that would make it more difficult for criminals to operate and would impose heavier penalties to discourage crime.

Using the example of a penalty of N10 million, Wike suggested that the deterrent effect would be significant, as very few individuals would be able to afford such a hefty fine for a single solar panel. He stressed the importance of amending existing laws to prevent criminals from taking advantage of loopholes and continuing their unlawful acts.

The minister urged Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the Senate, to initiate a review of the current laws aimed at combating crime in the FCT in order to strengthen the penalties. Wike believed that such measures would complement the efforts of security agencies and ensure that those involved in criminal activities face severe consequences for their actions.

He reassured FCT residents that the government was actively working with security agencies to address the prevailing security challenges and emphasized that they were committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the populace.