Anambra State Government Affirms Ban on Illegal Scrap Metal Dealers

The Anambra state government has reaffirmed that the ban on the illegal activities and operations of metal scrap dealers—commonly referred to as ‘Iron Condemned,’ ‘Iron Kwandem,’ or ‘Ndị Akpakara’—remains in effect.

The State Commissioner for Environment Engr. Felix Odimegwu stated this in an interview with Voice of Nigeria. He addressed the enforcement status of the ban, initially announced on September 13, 2024. His comments followed reports indicating that scrap dealers continue to operate within the state, raising concerns about the implementation of the ban.

“We have commenced the registration and certification process for these dealers, and there’s a deadline for this registration,” Odimegwu stated. “This is why we urge them to come forward and get registered. Those who have done so are being documented.”

Once the registration process concludes, the government plans to publish the names and locations of registered dealers. Odimegwu warned that anyone found operating without proper registration and certification would face arrest and prosecution.

“The ban is still very much in effect,” he emphasized. “Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo has mandated a prohibition of all illegal operations. Anyone found operating without registration will be deemed illegal, and they will be dealt with accordingly.”

The first phase of the statewide registration for scrap dealers is set to conclude on October 31, 2024. Future extensions will depend on a review conducted after the deadline. Odimegwu reiterated the urgency for unregistered scrap dealers to take advantage of the remaining time to ensure compliance.

In addition to routine monitoring, enforcement teams—including officers from the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) and the Special Anti-Touting Squad in Anambra (SASA)—will periodically inspect trading locations. They will check the registration status of dealers and examine any scrap materials for potential stolen or vandalized property. Offenders may face arrest and the closure of their operations.

Regarding the registration process, Odimegwu noted that while the main registration is occurring at the State Ministry of Environment in Awka, plans are underway to establish registration centers at the Departments of Environment and Sanitation across all 21 local government areas. This initiative has been somewhat delayed by the recent elections of local mayors, who have only just taken office.

In the meantime, he advised scrap dealers to continue visiting the State Ministry of Environment for registration, as many others have already begun the process.