A recent development in Adamawa State has seen the government enforce a ban on scavenging across the entire region.
On Wednesday, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri officially implemented the ban through the signing of an order that prohibits any scavenging activities.
In an announcement made by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Humwashi Wonosikou, it was emphasized that the executive order came into effect on Wednesday, 14th August 2024. The ban is applicable to all 21 local government areas in Adamawa State until further notice.
Defining scavenging as “the act of rummaging through waste or engaging in any activities that pose a nuisance or health risk,” Wonosikou highlighted that under the new directive, engaging in scavenging is considered a criminal offense and offenders will be subject to arrest and prosecution.
Security personnel in the state have been granted authorization to apprehend individuals who contravene this order, as stated by Wonosikou.
Additionally, it has been outlined that individuals attempting to avoid or obstruct the enforcement of the order will face legal repercussions in accordance with Section 5(2) and (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, and the Adamawa State Penal Code Law 2018.
Furthermore, the order specifies that those found violating it could face a maximum prison sentence of six months.