Edith CHUKU
As part of efforts to avert possible tragedies that could occur over unprotected manholes, a Port Harcourt based journalist has urged the Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to adopt a practical model to ensure safer roads and drainage.
Clarice Azuatalam made this appeal while expressing concern over the growing threat to public safety as vandals continue to target drainage infrastructure.
She said since those who are stealing the manholes are not relenting, the state government should adopt alternative manhole covers to curb vandalism and incessant manhole theft.
The renowned journalists proffered this solution in reaction to TNN’s March 11, 2026, publication on residents dismay over the danger posed by the unprotected manholes across the state.
She explained that, “the vandalism of manholes in Port Harcourt is becoming very serious. As some people pointed out in your report, anybody could fall into the gutter/drainage, and that would be the end of the person.
“Solution: Since those who are stealing the manholes are not relenting, the state government should adopt another strategy to stem this ugly tide.”
She revealed that, “I was at Arochukwu, Abia State last week, and we passed through Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. I noticed what the government of Akwa Ibom did on the road that connects it to Arochukwu. ( I am told this was done during the tenure of Godswill Akpabio).
“It built manholes made of slabs. On placing the slabs on the manholes, it did not allow it to cover the manholes completely. It left a little opening for air and water to be drifting in and out of the manholes.
“The current Abia State government saw this and copied it. That way, the walkways on that long stretch of road are secure.
“May be, the RSG could adopt this style so that these unscrupulous elements who steal and sell these iron covers for manholes will stop.”
TNN had previously revealed concerns raised over the vandalization and theft of manhole covers in Eneka Community of the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state, as residents push for immediate intervention to cover the manholes.
The residents who spoke with our correspondent expressed worry over the danger posed by the unprotected manholes, and charged the LG chairman, Dr. Gift Worlu, the community leaders and vigilante to ensure the apprehension of manhole cover thieves and those patronizing them.
A visit to the Igwuruta-Eneka-Rumuokwurushi road, especially the Eneka First Market axis where the new flyover is sited, most of the manhole covers had been stolen, few were protected with vehicle tyres while others were left uncovered.
In an interview, Mr Ikechukwu Duru, wondered how manhole vandalism and theft could happen in such very busy area and the perpetrators would cart away manhole covers without being caught.
Other respondents called for immediate intervention to avert loss of lives.
