Ogun State Enacts Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Bill, 2025 to Promote Public Order and Environmental Safety
Abeokuta, Ogun State – February 12, 2025 – In a landmark move to address growing concerns over public safety, environmental degradation, and community tensions, the Ogun State House of Assembly has passed the Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Bill, 2025. Sponsored by Hon. Dr. Babatunde Opeolu Tella and co-sponsored by six other lawmakers, including Hon. Waliu Owode, the bill aims to regulate the activities of scavengers and waste dealers across the state, ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more harmonious environment for residents.
The bill, which received overwhelming support from lawmakers, stakeholders, and community leaders, is set to transform the waste management sector in Ogun State. It introduces stringent measures to curb illegal operations, promote environmental sustainability, and foster peaceful coexistence between scavengers, waste dealers, and residents.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Law, 2025 is divided into five parts, each addressing critical aspects of the waste management ecosystem. Below are some of the highlights:
- Regulated Operating Hours: Scavengers are restricted to operating between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM daily, with a complete ban on Sunday operations. This measure aims to reduce nighttime activities often associated with theft and public disturbances.
- Community Autonomy: Communities are empowered to enforce a “No Scavenger Operation” policy within their jurisdictions. Residents in such areas may only sell recyclable materials outside designated restricted zones.
- Mandatory Registration and Identification: All scavengers and waste dealers must register with the Ogun State Ministry of Environment. Registered individuals will be issued identification uniforms and tags, which must be displayed at all times during operations. Traditional rulers and Serikis Hausa will play a key role in the verification process.
- Collaboration with Community Task Forces: Scavengers are required to cooperate with local task forces, ensuring compliance with community-specific regulations.
- Penalties for Violations: Offenders face fines of up to ₦100,000 for first-time violations and suspension of operations for repeated offenses. Communities failing to enforce lawful measures will also face administrative penalties.
- Prevention of Jungle Justice: The law explicitly prohibits jungle justice, emphasizing lawful enforcement and prosecution of offenders.
- Monitoring and Compliance: The Ministry of Environment will establish monitoring committees to oversee compliance and submit quarterly reports to the House of Assembly.
Stakeholder Reactions
The bill has been widely applauded by stakeholders, including the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employees of Nigeria (NASWDEN), traditional rulers, and environmental advocacy groups.
Hon. Dr. Babatunde Opeolu Tella, the bill’s sponsor, emphasized its importance in addressing the challenges posed by unregulated scavenging activities. “This law is not just about regulation; it is about creating a sustainable and orderly environment where everyone can thrive. It ensures that scavengers and waste dealers operate within the bounds of the law while protecting the interests of our communities,” he stated.
Alhaji Musa Ibrahim, a representative of NASWDEN, expressed optimism about the bill’s impact. “This law provides a framework for legitimate operations and protects our members from harassment and exploitation. We are committed to working with the government to ensure its successful implementation,” he said.
Implementation and Next Steps
The Ogun State Ministry of Environment has been tasked with developing comprehensive guidelines for the law’s implementation within 60 days of its enactment. The ministry will also collaborate with law enforcement agencies, traditional rulers, and NASWDEN to conduct awareness campaigns and educate residents on the new regulations.
Governor Dapo Abiodun is expected to sign the bill into law in the coming weeks, with a public notice to announce its commencement date.
The Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Law, 2025 marks a significant step forward in Ogun State’s efforts to promote public order, environmental safety, and peaceful coexistence. By addressing the challenges associated with scavenging and waste management, the law sets a precedent for other states to follow in creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future.
Residents and stakeholders alike are hopeful that the law’s effective implementation will bring about lasting positive change, ensuring that Ogun State remains a model of environmental stewardship and community harmony.
