The Edo State House of Assembly has directed security agencies to intensify efforts against illegal scavengers, popularly known as “Iron Condemn,” following increasing incidents of vandalism, theft, and security breaches across the state.
The resolution was reached during Monday’s plenary after the Majority Leader, Jonathan Ibhamawu, moved a motion of urgent public importance highlighting the growing threat posed by the activities of scavengers.
Presenting the motion, Ibhamawu narrated how suspected scavengers attacked his property along Ekenwan Road, destroying his gate, removing roofing sheets, and making away with valuable items. He warned that the activities of the group have gone beyond scavenging and now constitute a serious security concern for residents.
He also recalled an alarming incident in which suspected scavengers were reportedly caught attempting to kidnap a child who had allegedly been hidden beneath refuse inside their cart. According to him, such incidents underscore the urgent need for stronger enforcement against criminal elements disguising themselves as scavengers.
The Majority Leader urged security agencies to arrest and prosecute those involved in vandalism and called on residents to promptly report suspicious activities within their communities.
Several lawmakers, including Edobor Uzamere, Sunday Aghedo, Osezua Ojezele, Deputy Speaker Maria Edeko, and Edosa Osaro, supported the motion. They agreed that tougher enforcement and stricter penalties would serve as a deterrent against vandalism and other related crimes while helping to protect lives and public infrastructure.
Following deliberations, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku directed all security agencies operating in Edo State to take decisive action by removing illegal scavengers from the streets and ensuring that those violating the law are arrested and prosecuted.
In a separate legislative matter, the House considered for second reading a bill designed to strengthen revenue collection, improve tax compliance, enhance transparency, and promote accountability in public financial management.
Opening debate on the proposed legislation, Ibhamawu expressed concern over persistent revenue leakages, stressing that improved accountability in tax collection would provide government with additional resources to fund infrastructure and development projects across the state.
Lawmakers, including Isibor Emakhu, Maria Edeko, Ugabi, and Minority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghian, contributed to the debate. While members generally supported the objective of strengthening revenue administration, they agreed that wider consultations with relevant stakeholders were necessary before the bill proceeds further.
The Assembly also advocated stricter tax compliance among shopping malls, hotels, cinemas, and other commercial establishments operating within the state. Emakhu called for stronger enforcement of existing tax laws, while Osaro recommended additional investigations and broader stakeholder engagement before final decisions are reached.
Speaker Agbebaku subsequently directed that deliberations on the revenue reform proposals resume at a later sitting.
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The House further committed the bill seeking the imposition, collection, and administration of the Socio-Economic Development Levy and other related services to the Committees on Finance and Judiciary for further legislative consideration.
During the plenary, the Assembly received four separate letters from Governor Monday Okpebholo, seeking confirmation of political appointees and consideration of executive bills submitted to the legislature.
Lawmakers also paid tribute to the late Emmanuel Oronsaye, former Clerk of the Edo State House of Assembly and former Chairman of the Edo State House of Assembly Service Commission, in recognition of his contributions to the legislature.
The Speaker congratulated Deputy Speaker Maria Edeko on the wedding of her daughter in Canada, while members also celebrated Majority Leader Jonathan Ibhamawu on his 60th birthday, offering prayers for his continued health and service.
The House adjourned plenary until Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
