The Niger State government has met with leaders of the scrap and waste dealers’ association to find a solution to the persistent vandalisation and theft of public and private property.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago convened the meeting at Government House today, where he condemned the continuous theft by criminals who disguise themselves as scrap dealers.

“The government will not fold its hands and allow criminal elements under the guise of scrap traders to continue to deface structures and steal valuables,” Governor Bago said. 

He urged the association’s leaders to “sanitise” the group by identifying and removing bad actors.

The governor warned that a future meeting with all stakeholders will be held to review operational guidelines, and an executive bill will be sent to the State Assembly to ensure offenders are prosecuted.

In response, Mallam Mohammed Ahmed, the association’s chairman, said they are planning to introduce uniforms and ID cards to curb the criminal activity. 

He also highlighted a lack of funding for the association’s task force and said some local government areas have refused to register members.