The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has cautioned construction companies, contractors, property developers and excavation handlers in Kwara State to avoid actions that could result in the destruction of fibre-optic cables and other critical national infrastructure.

The State Commandant, CC Bala Bawa Bodinga, issued the directive during a strategic management briefing at the command headquarters in Ilorin.

In a statement released by the Command's Public Relations Officer, ASC I Ayoola Michael, Bodinga stressed that the protection of telecommunications infrastructure remains a matter of national security and a core responsibility of the corps.

He expressed concern over the rising cases of damaged underground fibre installations, attributing the incidents to negligence and failure to conduct proper utility verification before excavation.

According to him, such damage often leads to widespread disruption of communication networks, banking operations, emergency response systems and other essential services vital to public safety and economic stability.

"In line with directives from the Office of the National Security Adviser on the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure nationwide, all construction and excavation works within Kwara State must be preceded by proper clearance and verification of underground utilities," Bodinga said.

"Contractors are required to liaise with relevant service providers and the NSCDC before commencing any digging activities. Ignorance of the presence of fibre-optic installations will not be accepted as a defence."

The command warned that any individual or corporate body found culpable of negligent or deliberate damage to critical infrastructure would face arrest, investigation and prosecution in accordance with existing laws.

The NSCDC reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against vandalism and sabotage of national assets and urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest formation.