Scrap dealers regulation bill scales second reading in A’Ibom assembly
A Bill seeking to regulate the activities of scrap metal dealers and similar businesses in Akwa Ibom State has passed second reading on the floor of the Assembly.
The bill with serial number “HAB-367” seeks to regulate the Business of Scrap Metal Dealers, Similar Goods, and for Other Matters Connected Therewith. It is sponsored by the member representing Okobo State Constituency, Bassey Pius Bassey, and co-sponsored by six other lawmakers.
Presenting the general principles of the bill on the floor of the House during Tuesday’s plenary, Bassey expressed concern over the unregulated operations of scrap metal dealers, commonly known as ‘Iron Condemn’, across the State.
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He decried the growing incidents of vandalism, theft, and environmental pollution attributed to the activities of these operators, stressing the need for proper oversight and licensing.
According to the lawmaker, the bill seeks to ensure that only authorised individuals or entities, duly licensed by the relevant authorities, are permitted to engage in the scrap metal business. He cited numerous cases of stolen and vandalised public and private property, including manhole covers and other metallic infrastructure, as justification for the necessity of the bill.
Part One of the proposed legislation provides that “No person shall carry on business as a scrap metal dealer unless authorised by a license under this law (a ‘scrap license’).”
Contributing to the debate, the Chief Whip of the House, Effiong Johnson, alongside members representing Uyo ( Uwemedimo Asuquo), Essien Udim (Ukpong Akpabio), Ibiono Ibom ( Moses Essien), and Etim Ekpo/Ika ( Mfon Idung), commended Hon. Bassey for the initiative.
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The lawmakers unanimously described the bill as timely and necessary, lamenting the economic losses suffered by the State due to the destructive activities of scrap metal dealers.
They maintained that once passed and assented to by the Governor, the bill will effectively regulate the sector and help restore order and environmental sanity.
Reacting, Speaker of the House, Udeme Otong, referred the bill to the House Committee on Environment for further legislative scrutiny and directed the Committee to report back to the House within one month.
Meanwhile, the House has adjourned plenary to reconvene tomorrow, Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
