The Delta State Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, has raised an alarm over the persistent vandalism of traffic lights, calling it a major challenge to effective traffic management in the state.
Speaking during an inspection of affected areas in Asaba, the state capital, Agofure decried the theft of batteries powering the traffic lights, particularly at key junctions such as, the Maryam Babangida Junction leading to the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat Complex and the cross junction near the Delta Broadcasting Service.
Accompanied by the Director of Land Transport, Emmanuel Akpojotor, the commissioner expressed frustration over the recurring acts of vandalism, labeling them as deliberate attempts to disrupt an otherwise organized traffic system.
“Traffic lights are crucial for the safe and smooth flow of vehicles, and it’s disheartening that some individuals prefer to plunge the system into chaos for selfish gains,” he said.
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Agofure revealed that the stolen components have rendered the traffic lights non-functional, posing risks of accidents and congestion in these areas.
He appealed to motorists and road users to cooperate with the Delta State Traffic Management Authority officers deployed to manage traffic in the absence of functioning lights.
The commissioner also issued a stern warning to vandals, promising that those caught tampering with government infrastructure would face prosecution.
Agofure directed Akpojotor to introduce enhanced security measures to protect the traffic lights system against future vandalism to curb further incidents.
He assured the public that the state government is prioritizing the repair and fortification of the traffic light infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order and safety on major roads in the state.
This acts of vandalism, Agofure stressed, not only disrupts daily life but also wastes government resources meant for public development.
He called on citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity around critical infrastructure.
