**Plans Bill to Regulate Scavengers, Scrap Dealers
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has unveiled plans to introduce a law regulating scavengers and scrap dealers across the State, in a move aimed at tackling the growing menace of vandalism and theft linked to their operations.
The Governor disclosed this on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the new Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Command, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, at the Government House, Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo, who condoled with the NSCDC over the passing of its former Commandant, Gbenga Agun Joseph, described him as a dedicated officer whose contributions to the State’s security would be remembered.
His Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua in a statement quoted him thus,
“Let me first condole with you on the passing of your predecessor. With your familiarity with Edo’s terrain, I am confident you will sustain and strengthen the partnership we’ve built with the Corps,” he said.
Decrying the wave of vandalism attributed to scavengers and scrap collectors, the Governor vowed to restore order to the sector.
“The way they go about stealing irons and damaging public property is unacceptable. We are sending a bill to the House of Assembly to regulate their activities. Every operator must know their limits — anyone who crosses the line will face the law,” he stated.
Okpebholo noted that the planned legislation would set clear boundaries for scavenging operations, promote accountability, and protect critical infrastructure across the State.
Earlier, Commandant Ayinla commended the Governor for his continued support to security agencies, particularly in logistics and operational resources. He expressed concern over the rising cases of infrastructure vandalism linked to scavenging activities.
“While the scrap business supports livelihoods, its unregulated operations have fueled theft of electric cables, manhole covers, and public installations. Without proper control, this could spiral into larger security challenges,” he warned.
Ayinla disclosed that the NSCDC had already begun a statewide mapping of scrap markets and scavenging points, to create a database for effective monitoring. He urged the government to license operators, designate approved scrap zones, and restrict handling of materials from critical infrastructure.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with security agencies to ensure a safer, cleaner, and better-organized Edo State