Manhole cover thefts: Wike descends on waste pickers, WAPAN kicks

By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has cracked down on waste pickers in the territory, banning their operations and slamming a two-week suspension on iron scrap business over alleged rising criminalities and insecurity.
In a swift reaction, however, the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN) described the decision as improper
At a critical security council meeting on Monday, January 13, the FCTA took a series of strict measures aimed at addressing rising security concerns and safeguard public infrastructure across the territory.
The meeting, chaired by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, brought together key security officials to discuss the growing challenges posed by illegal activities within the territory.
Among the key decisions made was a two-week suspension of operation on all Panteka markets, which deal in secondhand goods such as furniture, appliances, and scrap iron.
The ban, starting Tuesday, January 14, is to give security agencies time to profile operators and ensure that only legitimate businesses are allowed to function.
Scavengers in the city will also now be restricted to designated dump sites located in the outskirts and surrounding areas of Abuja.
The new directive, effective from January 14, is aimed at reducing the hazards posed by illegal scavenging in the city center.
The FCTA has also announced a much tougher stance against the vandalism of public infrastructure.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, warned that those caught vandalizing public property would face serious charges, including economic sabotage and attempted murder.
He stressed that the removal of items like manhole covers presents a serious threat to public safety, especially when it leads to accidents that could be fatal.
Previous punishments, which often involved community service or fines, had failed to deter offenders, leading to their return to criminal activities.
These resolutions reflect the FCTA’s commitment to enhancing security and preserving the integrity of public infrastructure in Abuja.
Authorities are calling on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, in order to help protect government property and ensure a safer environment for all.
Swiftly reacting, however, the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN) described the ban on waste picking and suspension of pantaker operations in Abuja as improper.
In a statement on Tuesday 14 January 2025, WAPAN acknowledged the directive and confirmed that it would comply with the two-week suspension order, but also called for better consultation and a more sustainable approach to waste management in the capital city.
The association believes the decision could have been approached differently.
“As a key stakeholder in waste management, WAPAN should have been consulted before such measures were enforced,” said Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, the association’s president suggested in the statement.
“We are confident that, with our experience and structure, we could have offered solutions to the challenges at hand,” he said
The ban, which is set to last for two weeks, affects both formal and informal waste picking activities within the FCTA jurisdiction.
WAPAN confirmed that its members will suspend all pantaker operations and cease waste picking activities during this period, as directed by the authorities.
While acknowledging the importance of law enforcement in maintaining order, WAPAN stressed that the actions of a few individuals should not be a sufficient reason to penalize the entire community of responsible waste pickers.
“The actions of a few miscreants should not lead to a blanket ban that affects thousands of honest, hardworking individuals,” Yarima stated.
WAPAN called for dialogue with the FCTA, the Police Commissioner, and the Minister of Environment to resolve the issues amicably.
“We appeal to the relevant authorities to engage with us for a more sustainable solution. We are ready to collaborate and address any concerns raised by the authorities,” Yarima said.
Despite public sentiment possibly being against a lawsuit, as noted by WAPAN spokesperson Funto Boroffice, the association has opted for dialogue rather than legal action.
WAPAN urged its members to remain patient and disciplined during the two-week suspension, expressing optimism that the issues will be resolved through cooperation and mutual understanding. END