In a bid to tackle the incessant vandalism of national assets, the National Assembly is planning to enact legislation that will impose the death penalty on those found guilty.
This move comes after numerous incidents of vandalism have resulted in significant financial losses and loss of life.
The Scope of the Problem
Vandalism has been a persistent issue in Nigeria, with critical infrastructures such as power installations, railway tracks, airport facilities, and pipelines being targeted. According to reports, Nigeria loses billions of naira annually to vandalism. As Senator Adamu Aliero @adamualiero noted, “It is very unfortunate that it is not only the rail line that has been vandalized. As you rightly know, power installations, airport installations, oil and gas installations, and bridges have been vandalized.”
The Proposed Solution
Senator Adamu Aliero disclosed the proposed legislation in a recent interview. He emphasized that the bill would make vandalism a criminal offense punishable by death. “The national assembly is thinking of coming up with a very strong legislation that will make it criminal. If possible, for any vendor caught sabotaging public infrastructure, the punishment should be the death penalty. Probably, if that happens, it will go a long way in reducing vandalization drastically,” he said.
Mixed Reactions
The proposed death penalty has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some support the move, citing the consequences of vandalism, others believe that imprisonment and other punishments could be more effective. Opponents like Hon. Blessing Onuh argues that capital punishment is irreversible and raises the risk of wrongful convictions. They believe life imprisonment or lengthy sentences with hard labor would be a sufficient deterrent. Critics also question the practicality of implementing the death penalty for every vandalism case. Gathering evidence and lengthy court battles could outweigh the benefits. As Hon. Onuh pointed out, “there are other means to address the perennial vandalism of national assets rather than the proposed death penalty.
Consequences of Vandalism
Vandalism has far-reaching consequences, including financial losses, loss of life, and disruption of essential services. The recent derailment of the Warri-Itakpe railway line, attributed to vandalism, is a stark reminder of the dangers of this menace. According to the Minister of Transportation, Alkali S’aid, “The ministry and, of course, the Nigerian Railway Corporation are working hard to ensure that these vandals do not destroy our properties
Addressing Root Causes
Experts argue that simply punishing vandals may not be enough. Analyzing the reasons behind vandalism is crucial. Is it poverty, unemployment, or a lack of education? Investing in community programs, job creation initiatives, and educational opportunities could address the underlying issues and prevent future acts.
International Comparisons
Singapore, known for its strict laws, employs the death penalty for vandalism of critical infrastructure, but the effectiveness remains a topic of debate. Other countries, like Germany, utilize lengthy imprisonment and hefty fines to deter vandalism with some success. Learning from international experiences can inform Nigeria’s approach.
Way forward
While Hon. Onuh has proposed installing anti-theft devices as a preventive measure, security experts have suggested other means that can also be considered.
They believe increased security patrols, particularly in vulnerable areas, could deter vandalism attempts.
They also contend harsher prison sentences, with mandatory restitution for damages caused, could also serve as a deterrent.
“Studying international examples and engaging in open discussions with the public will help craft an effective and ethical solution to curb vandalism and protect Nigeria’s national assets.” Ola Ayinde a member of the Nigeria Society for Criminology (NSC) advised.
