From Joseph Asegba, Yola
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has signed an Executive Order prohibiting the activities of scavengers in the state.
He said the order takes immediate effect this August 2024 and shall remain in force in all 21 Local Government Areas of Adamawa State until further notice.
The Governor noted that, for the purpose of this order, “scavenging” means the act of rummaging through waste or engaging in any activity that constitutes a nuisance or health hazard.
Governor Fintiri, therefore, said the Order warns that any person who engages in scavenging commits a criminal offence and shall be liable to arrest and prosecution.
Fintiri noted that security agents operating in the State are empowered to search and arrest any person who violates this Order.
Reiterated that the Order adds that any person who circumvents or attempts to interfere with the free exercise of the office of the Governor, hides or offers cash or subverts the course of execution in any way shall be prosecuted in line with the provisions of 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, he said.
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri therefore said, “Any person who violates this Order is guilty of an offense and shall be liable to six months imprisonment, a fine of 100,000, or both imprisonment and fine.
“This Executive Order serves as a strong warning to all scavengers and those who engage in such activities.
He emphasized that the Adamawa State Government will not tolerate any actions that compromise the health, safety, and well-being of its citizens; violators will be dealt with swiftly and decisively.
“We urge all citizens to cooperate with the government in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, Fintiri said.