Court sentences transformer cable vandal to five years in prison in Kogi
Omeiza Bilal
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kogi State Command, has recorded another significant milestone in its fight against the vandalism of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), following the conviction and sentencing of one Mr. Akoji Jonah to five years’ imprisonment by the Federal High Court, Lokoja.
Delivering judgment on Monday, 19th October, 2026, the court, presided over by Hon. Justice of high court 2 lokoja found the defendant guilty of vandalising armoured transformer cables belonging to Kogi State Electricity Development Limited (KEDL) at Biraidu Community, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The conviction followed prosecution on charges relating to the vandalism of critical electricity infrastructure and economic sabotage, under the applicable laws.
Reacting to the judgment, the State Commandant Aletan Olumide Ebenezer, commended the Command’s Legal Unit led by the Officer-in-Charge, DCC Ike F. Ugochukwu, Esq, for his diligence and professionalism in prosecuting the case, stating that the achievement was as a result of water right investigation by the personnel of intelligence and investigation which makes it easier for the legal to prosecute.
The Commandant described the judgment as a strong deterrent to individuals and groups involved in the destruction of public utilities and other critical national assets.
He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting national infrastructure and ensuring that perpetrators of vandalism are brought to justice.
He further warned criminal elements to desist from acts capable of disrupting electricity supply, undermining economic development and threatening public safety, stressing that the Command would sustain its operational and intelligence-driven efforts to rid Kogi State of vandals and other economic saboteurs.
The NSCDC Kogi State Command urges members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around electricity installations and other critical infrastructure to the appropriate security agencies.
The Command remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives, property and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure across Kogi State.
