Bauchi Assembly Enacts Law to Curb Vandalism by Scrap Scavengers, Waste Pickers

Bauchi Assembly Passes Law to Regulate Scrap Metal Scavengers and Waste Pickers

The Bauchi State House of Assembly has passed a new law aimed at regulating the activities of scrap metal scavengers and illegal waste pickers across the state.

The bill, sponsored by Dr. Nasiru Ala, member representing Madara/Chinade Constituency, was passed on Tuesday after a review by the House Committee on Forestry and Environment.

Presenting its report during plenary, presided over by Speaker Abubakar Sulaiman, the committee explained that it engaged stakeholders, legal experts, and members of the public before finalizing the law to ensure a balanced regulation of the sector.

The law establishes a framework to monitor the movement of scrap metals, plastics, rubbers, wood, and paper collectors. It is also designed to curb theft of public infrastructure, reduce environmental hazards, and safeguard properties.

Dr. Ala noted that unregulated scavenger activities had led to the vandalism of critical infrastructure including transformers, electric cables, school furniture, and iron windows—causing significant financial losses and endangering public safety.

He expressed confidence that the new legislation would protect both public and private assets in Bauchi State.