The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned construction firms and contractors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that they will face prosecution for damaging underground fibre-optic cables, describing such acts as threats to national security and economic stability.
The warning was issued on Monday by the FCT Commandant of the NSCDC, Olusola Odumosu, following a surge in incidents where excavation and construction works by contractors severed critical communication cables across the capital.
Odumosu noted that the recurring damages often attributed to negligence, poor planning, and failure to verify underground utilities before excavation have disrupted internet services, banking operations, telecommunications, and other essential government and commercial activities.
He stressed that fibre-optic installations were now legally recognised as strategic national assets under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure Order 2024.
He added that any harm to such infrastructure, whether accidental or deliberate, constitutes a serious offence.
“Persistent damage to underground fibre-optic cables disrupts communication networks and undermines economic activities.
”Those responsible will henceforth face arrest and prosecution,” the commandant said.
Odumosu reminded contractors and developers to verify the presence of underground installations before beginning construction or excavation projects.
He advised liaison with telecommunication companies, relevant government agencies, and the NSCDC to ensure compliance.
He further warned that ignorance of underground fibre-optic installations would not be accepted as an excuse for damages.
Odumosu emphasised that the Corps would similarly act against vandalism of other critical national assets, including power facilities, oil and gas pipelines, rail infrastructure, water installations, and communication masts.
The commandant cited the NSCDC’s statutory authority under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Act 2003 (as amended in 2007) and highlighted that offenders could also face prosecution under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 and other legislation protecting national infrastructure.
Odumosu reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to intensify surveillance and enforcement operations in the FCT.
He called on residents, project managers, professional bodies, and community stakeholders to report any suspicious excavation or vandalism activities to the nearest NSCDC office for prompt intervention.
