Contractors in Rivers State face strict warnings from NSCDC over damaging telecom infrastructure. Learn the new rules, penalties, and preventive measures stated.
NSCDC Warns Contractors: Verify Before Excavation or Face Legal Action
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rivers State Command, has issued a stern warning to contractors to carry out proper checks before any excavation work to prevent damage to underground telecommunications infrastructure.
“Do Your Due Diligence Before Digging”
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Rivers State, the State Commandant, Joachin Okafor, emphasized the need for strict compliance with safety procedures. The meeting followed a directive from the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Okafor made it clear that contractors must prioritize verification and consultation before breaking ground.
“Contractors must carry out due diligence, consultation and verification before excavation to avoid damage to critical telecom infrastructure,” he said.
Damage to Fibre Optics Now Treated as Sabotage
The NSCDC didn’t mince words about the consequences of negligence. According to the Commandant, any careless or deliberate destruction of telecom infrastructure will be treated as a criminal offense.
“Any arbitrary tampering or destruction of fibre-optic cables will be treated as sabotage and vandalism under the law,” he warned.
Telecom Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Rising Losses
In a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SC Ihemnacho Umeado, telecom stakeholders expressed serious concerns over repeated damages caused by construction activities.
These incidents, they noted, have led to significant financial losses and service disruptions across the state.
New Measures to Prevent Future Damage
To tackle the issue, stakeholders agreed on several proactive steps, including:
- Mapping telecom infrastructure routes
- Conducting joint verification before road construction projects
- Strengthening communication between contractors and service providers
These measures aim to protect critical telecom infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted connectivity.