The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Communication, Science and Technology, Hon. Engr. Gibson Edwin Munalayefa, has expressed deep concern over the persistent vandalism of government property at the Bayelsa State ICT Village, warning that the state government will no longer tolerate acts of sabotage against public infrastructure.
Engr. Munalayefa gave the warning on Wednesday during an inspection visit to the ICT Village, located along Sani Abacha Express Road in the Amarata area of Yenagoa. He lamented the activities of scavengers, miscreants, and other criminal elements who have repeatedly targeted the facility, carting away solar panels, air conditioners, and other valuable government-owned items.
The Commissioner described the situation as “totally unacceptable,” stressing that the ICT Village was established to support digital innovation, empower young people, and promote technological development in Bayelsa State. He noted that the repeated destruction and theft of essential equipment undermine the government’s investment and slow down the state’s overall progress in ICT.
Engr. Munalayefa further disclosed that the Ministry has activated enhanced surveillance systems around the facility to curb further vandalism. According to him, anyone caught attempting to steal or destroy government property will be arrested and prosecuted without hesitation.
He revealed that security investigations recently led to the arrest of several suspects connected to previous incidents at the ICT Village. The stolen items, he said, were traced to the individuals who took them and others who bought the items under the false claim that they were “unserviceable.” Those apprehended have already been charged to court.
To strengthen security within the area, the Commissioner announced that special armed security personnel have been deployed to the ICT Village and its surroundings. Their presence, he added, will ensure that scavengers and criminal groups are completely flushed out of the facility.
Engr. Munalayefa also called on residents to support government efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities. He appealed particularly to parents, guardians, community leaders, and youth groups to caution their wards against involvement in any criminal act, warning that “it will no longer be business as usual.”
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting all public facilities and ensuring that investments made for the benefit of citizens are safeguarded from any form of sabotage.
