The Niger State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, has issued a strong warning to scrap dealers and commercial motorcycle operators to steer clear of buying or transporting stolen materials—or risk serious consequences.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with the Scrap Dealers Association and the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN) in Minna, Elleman said the police are intensifying efforts to stop vandals from stripping the state of critical infrastructure.
“We are not against your business,” Elleman told the groups. “But do it responsibly. Anyone caught buying or moving stolen items will face the law.”
Police investigations reveal that power cables, metals, and public property are often moved on tricycles and motorcycles. The commissioner urged association leaders to educate their members, stressing that ignorance will not protect anyone from arrest.
“If you’re found with property you can’t account for, you will be treated as an accomplice,” he warned.
Elleman also disclosed that the Niger State House of Assembly is finalizing a legal framework to regulate the scrap trade. “Very soon, there will be a law guiding your business. Prepare yourselves and comply,” he said.
Both the Scrap Dealers Association and ACOMORAN pledged to cooperate with law enforcement. Scrap dealers highlighted new self-regulation measures, including banning anyone under 18 and mandatory reflective jackets for identification. ACOMORAN leaders also promised to keep warning members against carrying suspicious goods.
This meeting follows Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s recent directive requiring all scrap and waste dealers to register with the state government, provide residential and business addresses, and submit their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) and National Identification Numbers (NIN) before they can operate.
The governor has also banned minors from the trade and vowed stiff penalties for anyone caught with stolen property.
