Edo State Government Cracks Down on Vandalism with Arrests and Eviction Ultimatum
The Edo State Government has taken decisive action against vandalism by arresting six scavengers, commonly referred to as 'iron condemn', for allegedly damaging state-owned infrastructure in Benin City. In a significant move to restore order, the government has also issued a strict 21-day eviction notice to occupants of the Lagos Street moat and surrounding areas, many of whom are involved in scavenging activities.
Committee Chairman Announces Arrests and Ultimatum
Eugene Okoloise, Chairman of the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee, revealed these developments during a press briefing in Benin, where he detailed the committee's efforts and the negative impact of scavengers on public assets. Okoloise emphasized that the state will no longer tolerate the destruction of public property, stating that the arrested individuals are in police custody and will be charged in court on Monday.
"We cannot continue like this. We cannot, in the name of avoiding claims of marginalisation, allow attacks on state infrastructure. We will not allow it," Okoloise declared. He added that while scavengers are accepted as part of the community, this does not permit the vandalism of infrastructure.
Eviction Notice for Moat Occupants
Regarding the Lagos Street moat, Okoloise explained that occupants have been given 21 days to find alternative accommodation. "We have given them 21 days to look for a house. You cannot be living inside the moat," he asserted, highlighting the government's commitment to clearing unauthorized settlements to enhance public safety and urban planning.
Vandalism at Local School Cited
Okoloise also pointed to specific incidents of vandalism, such as at Fabiyi Akpata Primary School in Benin, where chairs and roofing sheets were allegedly removed. He called on leaders of scrap dealers to ensure those responsible contribute to repairing the school, warning that failure to do so could result in business restrictions in the state.
Scrap Dealers Association Responds with Regulations
In response to the government's actions, Alhaji Abbas Garuba, Chairman of the Scrap Dealers Association in Edo State, outlined new measures to regulate members' activities and curb misconduct. He announced that working hours have been set from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, with no operations allowed on Sundays to prevent theft of metal items.
"Now, we have given working hours to our members. Anyone who operates outside this time is not from us. We have also directed that there should be no work on Sundays," Garuba stated, adding that Sundays are used for meetings to address issues within the association.
This crackdown reflects the Edo State Government's broader strategy to protect public infrastructure and maintain law and order in Benin City, balancing community inclusion with strict enforcement against vandalism.
