The Forum of Patriotic Scavengers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has declared its support for the administration of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike while appealing for an end to the ongoing eviction and demolition of scavengers’ settlements.
Following a crucial meeting in Abuja, the forum’s media consultant, Ikenna Ndubuisi, emphasised that while concerns over vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure are valid, it is unfair to brand all scavengers as criminals.
He urged the minister to reconsider the blanket crackdown on scavenging activities, assuring that the forum’s registered members are committed to following the law.
“We understand the minister’s concerns regarding vandalism and infrastructure theft, such as gully outlet covers and other public assets.
However, not all scavengers engage in criminal activities. Many are law-abiding citizens striving to earn an honest living,” Ndubuisi stated.
In a bid to address the concerns raised by authorities, the forum announced several initiatives, including the issuance of identity cards to registered members, an accreditation process, and a comprehensive census to identify scavengers operating within the FCT.
Additionally, the group plans to collaborate with security agencies, including the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, to ensure compliance with regulations.
Ndubuisi further assured that the forum is committed to sensitising its members to protect public infrastructure and adhere to legal guidelines.
He reiterated the group’s readiness to work with the government to address violations within the scavenging community.
“The forum is ready to self-regulate and report any member who engages in criminal activities. We seek a second chance to prove that properly organised scavenging can be a legitimate and valuable economic activity,” he added.
The appeal comes amid the FCT Administration’s intensified efforts to sanitise the capital city, which has seen mass demolitions of illegal settlements, including areas occupied by scavengers.
