C'River: Governor Otu Suspends Scrap Metal Activities in The State Amid Vandalism Crisis

The Cross River State Government has imposed an immediate six-month ban on all scrap-related activities, citing a sharp rise in vandalism, theft and destruction of public infrastructure. 

A statement signed by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Ededem Charles Ani Esq. say utilities, road fittings private properties and community facilities have been targeted, disrupting services and endangering residents.

Ededem said security investigations linked the attacks directly to scrap dealers, scavengers and their agents operating across the state. 

In line with findings, the state governor Senator Bassey Otu has directed the immediate suspension of all scrap-related activities in Cross River State for an initial period of 6 (six) months. The suspension according to the statement covers every aspect of the scrap metal trade including, buying, scavenging, transporting and other related operations within, into or out of Cross River state.

The governor also called for a review of all laws, policies, and regulatory frameworks governing scrap-related activities in the State 

The statement warns that anyone caught violating the directive will be arrested and prosecuted as the relevant security agencies have been instructed to enforce the ban without exception.