… Ebonyi Govt Set to Profile Dealers
Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
Scrap Dealers Association, Ebonyi State Chapter has formally inaugurated its new Executive Members, tasked with overseeing not only the association’s operations but also curbing illicit activities in the industry.
The inauguration ceremony took place in Abakaliki on Wednesday, and was attended by prominent members of the association.
The newly inaugurated officials include Comr. Nwigwe Eric Ejike (Chairman),Hon.Chidi Nwite (Vice Chairman), Comr. Ngwuta Nnamdi Henry (Secretary), Mr. Nwiga Success (Assistant Secretary), Mrs. Nwoke Nkechi (Treasurer), Mr. Nweke Ogonna (Financial Secretary), and Mr. Ikpozu Jeremiah (Assistant Financial Secretary).
Others include Mr. Ngwuta Ifeanyi (Publicity Secretary I), Mr. Nweke Maduabuchi (Publicity Secretary II), Mr. Iguma Chukwuma (Director of Social I), Mrs. Nworie Blessing (Director of Social II), Mr. Onele John (Provost I), Mr.Nworie Chukwuma (Provost II), Mr. Ognonna Ifeanyi (Chief Task Force I), Mr. Iduru Lucky (Chief Task Force II), and Comr. Anya Chinedu (Patron).
During the ceremony, the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Victor Chukwu, represented by the HOD Administration, Ministry of Environment,Chibisi Agha urged the new leadership to maintain peace and unity within the association.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to partnering with groups willing to work towards maintaining law and orderliness in Ebonyi State.
The Commissioner also announced plans to create a registry for all scrap dealers through a profiling program to ensure accountability.
He stated, “When we do the profiling, we will have a database for all scrap dealers. We are emphasizing this because the iron used for beautifying Ebonyi State is disappearing due to unauthorized cutting.
“We want to profile you, have your data, and reach you in case of wrongdoing to maintain the state’s aesthetics.”
In his acceptance speech, the Chairman, Chief Nwigwe Eric Ejike expressed gratitude to Governor Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru for fostering a peaceful business environment.
He appealed for the government’s acceptance of the scrap business, stating that they operate their business legitimately and do not engage in criminal activities.
“We have never been this close to the government before, and we are grateful for this opportunity. We are registered members who do not engage in vandalism; instead, we assist the government in pursuing vandals,” said Ejike.
He further appealed to the government to support and empower scrap dealers, acknowledging their role in environmental sanitation.
Ejike emphasized that many members depend on scrap dealing for their livelihoods, and banning scrap should not be an option, as the business has employed many indigenes of the State.
He emphasized the need for collaboration with the government to curb vandalism and ensure that all scrap dealers are registered.
“We have made it clear that vandals tarnishing our reputation are outsiders. They are not registered members.
“Please join us in the fight against vandals and ensure that everyone who is into this business is fully registered, he stated.
During the official document handover, the outgoing chairman of the association, Comr. Edu Anya, prayed for God’s favor upon the new leadership. He called on everyone to unite in the fight against vandalism and urged them to maintain their commitment to the union and the well-being of Ebonyi in general.
‘Everybody should be law-abiding citizens, stay away from government property, and refrain from engaging in activities that could lead to trouble,’ he stated.
Other speakers at the event included the Association’s Patron, Augustine Ngwuta; the Secretary of Onitcha Old Motorspare Part, Hon. Ukpai Kelechi; Mrs. Obi Nwankwo, and others. They all advised the new leadership to stay focused and seek guidance from their predecessors when encountering challenges.
Highlights of the inauguration featured a prayer session led by Rev. Prosper Nwikpe from Assemblies of God Church, Abakaliki.