The Edo State Government has intensified efforts to protect public infrastructure in Benin City, announcing the arrest of six suspected scavengers accused of vandalising schools and other facilities. The suspects, commonly referred to as “condemn iron” dealers, were taken into custody and are expected to face charges in court.
Chairman of the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee, Eugene Okoloise, revealed the arrests during a press briefing. He stressed that the government would no longer tolerate the destruction of public assets under the guise of scrap collection. According to him, the suspects are currently held at a police station and will be prosecuted. He warned that the state cannot allow individuals to damage infrastructure while claiming marginalisation as an excuse.
Okoloise also addressed the issue of scavengers residing in the moat along Lagos Street. He issued a 21-day ultimatum for them to vacate the area and secure proper housing, describing their current living conditions as unacceptable. He highlighted the case of Fabiyi Akpata Primary School, where chairs and roofing sheets were allegedly stolen and sold. He insisted that scrap dealers must contribute to repairing the damage if they wish to continue operating in the state. Failure to comply, he warned, would result in a ban on their activities.
Leaders of the scrap dealers were present at the briefing and reportedly agreed to take responsibility for repairing vandalised facilities. Okoloise emphasised that this commitment must be honoured, or the government will enforce stricter measures.
Responding to the government’s concerns, Chairman of the Scrap Dealers Association in Edo State, Abbas Garuba, outlined steps taken to regulate members. He explained that the association has set working hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, with operations banned on Sundays. Garuba said the Sunday restriction was introduced because thefts often occur on that day. Instead, members gather for sensitisation sessions. He added that anyone operating outside the approved hours is not recognised as part of the association.
Garuba also appealed to the government to strengthen security around public facilities to deter vandalism. He acknowledged the need for cooperation between the association and authorities to safeguard infrastructure while allowing legitimate scrap collection to continue.
The crackdown reflects growing concern across Nigeria about the activities of scavengers. In many states, schools, bridges, and government buildings have been targeted for metal components, leading to costly repairs and disruption of public services. Authorities have responded with stricter regulations and enforcement measures to curb illegal practices and protect community assets.
Edo State’s latest actions underscore the government’s determination to balance economic activities with the protection of public property. By holding offenders accountable and demanding restitution, officials aim to send a clear message that vandalism will not be tolerated. At the same time, the involvement of the Scrap Dealers Association suggests a willingness to collaborate on solutions that preserve livelihoods while safeguarding essential infrastructure.
This development highlights the broader challenge of managing informal economic activities in Nigeria. While scrap collection provides income for many, unchecked practices can undermine public welfare. Edo State’s approach—combining enforcement, regulation, and dialogue—illustrates an effort to strike a middle ground. The coming weeks will reveal whether the ultimatum and commitments made by scrap dealers lead to meaningful change or further confrontation.
