The Edo State Government has announced plans to regulate the operations of scavengers and scrap dealers in a bid to tackle rising cases of vandalism across the state.
Governor Monday Okpebholo made the announcement 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.
The governor, who described the increasing theft and destruction of public and private property linked to scavenging operations as “unacceptable,” pledged the state government’s full support to security agencies to end the menace.
“The way they go about stealing irons, removing and destroying property belonging to people is not acceptable at all. I know that with your zeal and understanding of the State’s terrain, you will be able to take action to end this menace,” Okpebholo said.
He disclosed that the state will send a bill to the Edo State House of Assembly to establish a legal framework regulating scavenging and scrap business operations. The proposed law will define operational boundaries, mandate registration, and provide clear sanctions for violators.
“When somebody is operating, he should know his boundaries. If they go beyond that, they should know they are fighting the government. We need to do that so there will be sanity in their operations,” the governor added.
Governor Okpebholo also extended condolences to the NSCDC over the death of the immediate past state commandant, Gbenga Agun Joseph, describing the news as a shock.
Earlier, Commandant Ayinla, who assumed office on October 17, 2025, commended the state government for its continued support to security agencies through the provision of vehicles, financial assistance, and logistics.
He highlighted the growing vandalism linked to the scrap industry, including theft of electric cables, manhole covers, and streetlight poles, warning that if left unchecked, it could escalate into more serious crimes.
“While the scrap and scavenging industry contributes to economic activities, its operations have regrettably been linked to rising cases of vandalism and criminality,” Ayinla said.
The NSCDC, he disclosed, has begun a census of scrap markets and scavenging points across the state to enhance monitoring and control. He also called on the government to designate scrap market locations, regulate their operating hours, and enforce registration and licensing requirements.
The Edo State Government’s proposed regulatory framework is expected to complement security efforts and protect critical infrastructure.