C’River Govt. suspends ‘scrap-business’ for 6 months

IDONGESIT INYANG, CALABAR

The Cross River State Government, has expressed grave concern over the alarming rise in vandalism, theft, and the destruction of public infrastructure and private property across Cross River State.

Critical assets, including public utilities, road installations, and essential community facilities, have been deliberately targeted, resulting in service disruptions, economic losses, and heightened threats to public safety.

Investigations and security reports have established a direct nexus between these destructive acts and the activities of scrap dealers, scavengers, and their agents operating within the State.

To this end, the State government has suspended for an initial period of six months, all scrap related activities.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Attorney General of the State, Ededem Ani Esq, issued Monday in Calabar.

The suspension applies, “comprehensively to all forms of scrap dealing, including but not limited to trading, scavenging, transportation, and any related operations within, into, or out of the State,” the statement read.

Ani, also in the statement, mandated law enforcement bodies and relevant security agencies, ” to ensure strict compliance and enforcement without exception.”

The Commissioner, stated that given the urgency and severity of the situation, His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Bassey Otu, has directed the immediate review of all laws, policies, and regulatory frameworks governing scrap-related activities in the State.

The governor, according to the Commissioner has asked for an urgent interim measure to halt further damage, restore order, and safeguard State and private assets.

“His Excellency has further approved the immediate suspension of all scrap-related activities in Cross River State for an initial period of 6 (six) months” Ani also disclosed.

It added that “Any individual, group, or entity found in violation of this directive shall be dealt with in accordance with the law and shall face the full force of legal sanctions. All law enforcement bodies and relevant security agencies are hereby mandated to ensure strict compliance and enforcement without exception.”

The statement maintained that the Cross River State Government remains resolute in its duty to protect public infrastructure, defend private property, and ensure that residents feel safe and secure explaining that” These measures are necessary to prevent further sabotage of critical assets and to maintain public confidence.”

The full cooperation of all residents, stakeholders, and lawful business operators is expected and appreciated, the Commissioner in the statement concluded.