Obinna Egbu, (Ngor Okpala constituency), Imo state House of Assembly
The Imo House of Assembly on Wednesday urged the state government to check the illegal activities of scrap metal scavengers through the Ministry of Homeland Security and Vigilante.
The house made the resolution following a motion moved by the representative of Ngor Okpala state constituency, Mr Obinna Egu.
While presenting the motion, Egu stated that scrap metal scavenging should be a legitimate business which promotes the recycling of waste materials.
He however regretted that it had become a security threat as many scrappers now engage in theft, vandalisation of major components of electricity Transformers spying and releasing of vital security information to kidnappers and hoodlums.
He said their nefarious activities pose a huge security risk within and around communities and neighborhoods in both rural and urban areas of the state.
The Lawmaker noted that it had become pertinent to checkmate and regulate the activities of these scavengers to foster a more secure environment in the state.
He suggested creating areas where scrap metal trading can take place legitimately, and restricting their activities within the designated areas.
He therefore prayed the house to urge the state government to check their illicit activities through the Ministry of Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs and other security related Agencies.
Contributing to the motion, the representative of Mbaitoli state constituency, Mr Innocent Ikpamezie also stated that the scavengers had become more invested in criminality than scrap metal collection.
He also urged security agencies in the state to act fast to arrest the trend before it gets out of hand.
Similarly, the Oguta representative, Mr Gilbert Nwosu agreed that many criminals have successfully robbed unsuspecting persons while disguised as scrap metal scavengers.
The Majority Leader, Mr Kanayo Onyemaechi (Owerri West) in his contribution said there was need for urgent action to protect the lives and property of Imo people.
The Speaker, Mr Chike Olemgbe (Ihitte Uboma) ruled in favor of the motion’s prayers following more contributions and votes in favor of the motion.
