Legislators move to strengthen scrap iron laws as scavengers resurface in Cross River

Activities of scrap metal scavengers, popularly known as “Iron Condemned,” have resurfaced in Calabar and other major towns in Cross River State, months after the state government enacted a law to curb their operations.

Their return to the streets and communities has raised questions about the enforcement of the existing law and the government’s commitment to regulating their activities.

In response to concerns surrounding the scrap metal industry, the Cross River State House of Assembly held a public hearing on a bill seeking to repeal and re-enact the Cross River State Scrap Regulatory Agency Law No. 5 of 2017.

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen regulation of scrap metal collection, transportation, storage, processing and disposal, while addressing emerging environmental and security concerns.

The hearing was organised by the House Committee on Environment and Sanitation at the Assembly Complex, Calabar.

Speaking on behalf of the committee chairman, the vice-chairman, Martins Achadu, representing Yala II, said stakeholders’ contributions would help the Assembly produce legislation that reflects the interests of Cross River residents. He said the growing activities of scrap dealers made a review of the existing legal framework necessary.

One major concern raised at the hearing was the possibility of hazardous and radioactive materials finding their way into scrap collection centres. The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure called for clear procedures to identify, screen and safely handle different categories of scrap materials.

The ministry advocated mandatory security and radiation screening mechanisms, warning that radioactive substances could expose scrap workers, traders and neighbouring communities to serious health risks if handled alongside ordinary metals.

Civil society representatives also called for a traceability system to establish the origin, movement and destination of scrap materials, arguing that registering dealers and licensing collection centres alone would not guarantee accountability.

They further advocated proper documentation of scrap collection, purchases, transportation and sales to enable regulatory authorities to identify suspicious transactions, investigate complaints and curb the unlawful acquisition and movement of materials.

Achadu said the public hearing would allow stakeholders to identify shortcomings and recommend amendments before the bill’s eventual passage, stressing that effective legislation must reflect practical realities and provide adequate safeguards for the environment, public health and security.