Insecurity: Edo Moves to Regulate Scavengers, Scrap Dealers As Gov Okpebholo Vows Tough Measures Against Vandalism

The Edo State Government has announced plans to regulate the activities of scavengers and scrap dealers across the state as part of efforts to curb vandalism and protect public infrastructure.

Governor Monday Okpebholo disclosed this on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the new Edo State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, at the Government House in Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo pledged full government support to the NSCDC in tackling the growing menace of vandalism often linked to scavenging and scrap trading. He described the indiscriminate removal of public and private property by scavengers as unacceptable, warning that his administration would no longer tolerate such acts.

“The way they go about stealing irons and destroying people’s property is not acceptable at all,” the Governor said. “We are sending a bill to the Edo State House of Assembly to regulate the activities of scavengers and scrap dealers. Anyone who goes beyond their boundary will be dealt with according to the law.”

Governor Okpebholo further revealed that the proposed legislation will define operational boundaries, mandate registration, and set penalties for violations, adding that the move aims to restore sanity and accountability within the sector.

While welcoming Commandant Ayinla to Edo, the Governor also extended condolences over the passing of the former Commandant, Gbenga Agun Joseph, describing his death as “a painful loss to the State and the Corps.”

“I know you are not new to Edo; you understand our terrain. I’m confident you will build on your predecessor’s efforts to strengthen security and end this menace,” he added.

Earlier, Commandant Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, who assumed office on October 17, 2025, commended Governor Okpebholo for his administration’s continuous support to security agencies through the provision of vehicles, financial aid, and other logistics.

He raised concern over the rising wave of vandalism linked to scrap and scavenging activities, citing theft of electric cables, manhole covers, and streetlight poles as common examples.

“While the scrap and scavenging industry contributes to the economy, it has unfortunately become a cover for criminal activities. Without proper regulation, this could escalate into larger crimes like vehicle theft and infrastructure destruction,” he warned.

Ayinla disclosed that the NSCDC had begun a census of scrap markets and scavenging sites across the state to establish a comprehensive monitoring and control framework.

He also urged the state government to designate approved scrap zones, enforce operating hours, and introduce licensing and registration systems for scrap dealers to ensure accountability and security compliance.

The visit, officials noted, marks a renewed collaboration between the Edo State Government and the NSCDC in addressing security challenges, particularly those associated with illegal scavenging and infrastructure vandalism.