The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Olusola Odumosu, has issued a call for the regulation of pantaker markets in the region.
A Pantaker market is an open marketplace in Nigeria where scrap metals and used items of any type, especially second-hand metal, iron and aluminium, are sold, or pawned.
Odumosu who spoke at the Monday muster parade at the NSCDC FCT Command Headquarters in Abuja on Monday highlighted the urgent need for governmental oversight in these markets due to their role in the sale of vandalised goods.
“With the proliferation of pantaker markets all over the city, and the suburbs, criminals have ready markets to sell vandalized metals, iron, aluminium, armoured cables, scraps and other stolen items which had increased the spate of vandalism of public properties in the FCT,” Odumosu noted in a statement signed by the command spokesperson, Idoko Samuel.”
The commandant emphasised the importance of addressing concerns related to the sale and purchase of second-hand goods in these markets, citing the lack of comprehensive oversight as a significant challenge.
He stressed that regulation, monitoring, and enforcement of government policy would help mitigate the rampant cases of vandalism and theft of infrastructure.
“Proper regulation has the potential to enhance marketplace accountability, and will help security agencies in identifying and bringing criminals who engage in acts of vandalism and theft to book”, added Odumosu.
He underscored the risks posed to consumers and the integrity of commercial operations by unregulated markets for used items.
Odumosu called for establishing clear rules and guidelines to protect private and government properties.
In light of recent infrastructural developments and commissions in the FCT by the Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, Odumosu urged for improved service and renewed strategies against the destruction of government property.
He called upon NSCDC officers and personnel to redouble their efforts in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Furthermore, Odumosu announced plans to intensify surveillance on pantaker markets through the Command’s Intelligence Department.
He warned that individuals caught attempting to sell vandalised or stolen items would face legal consequences to deter others from engaging in such activities.
The commandant urged members of the public to collaborate with the NSCDC by reporting any suspicious activities or persons attempting to vandalise public infrastructure.
