BENIN CITY — Residents of Edo State have welcomed the state government’s decision to profile scavengers operating across the state, describing the move as a necessary step towards curbing vandalism, theft and other criminal activities allegedly associated with some operators in the scrap-metal trade.
The reactions followed renewed government action against scavengers, popularly known as “iron condemn,” amid growing concerns over the alleged vandalism of both private and public infrastructure, with reports linking some operators to criminal activities in parts of the state.
A resident, Mr. Osazuwa Aguinede, said proper identification and registration would help relevant government agencies and security operatives distinguish genuine scrap-metal collectors from criminal elements using scavenging as a cover.“I urge the government to ensure that the exercise is not used to victimise legitimate operators, insisting that those engaged in lawful economic activities should be allowed to continue their businesses under clearly defined regulations,” he said.
For another resident, Engineer Paul Obasuyi, an estate valuer, the government’s profiling initiative represents an opportunity to establish accountability within an informal sector that has operated for years with limited or no regulation.“This is a worthy initiative by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and it should be commended,” he asserted.
For Madam Stella Ulinfo, however, the situation where scavengers, even after being profiled, are allowed to roam the streets, especially in residential communities, should be totally banned.“There should be a central market where anyone who has scraps to sell can take them, stressing that the process can still be compromised,” she said.
Another resident, who pleaded anonymity, called for closer cooperation between scrap dealers, community leaders and security agencies, arguing that information from those operating within the sector could assist in detecting stolen property.
The consensus among residents, therefore, appears to be that the government’s latest action is welcome but must be accompanied by effective regulation, intelligence gathering and strict enforcement.
The latest development may not be unconnected with the recent arrest of six suspected scavengers by the state government in April over alleged vandalism of government infrastructure, including schools in Benin City.