The Esit Eket Legislative Council has held a public hearing on a proposed bylaw aimed at regulating the operations of scavengers in the area and ensuring environmental and public safety.
The session, held at the Udo Edukere Hall, Esit Eket Local Government Secretariat, Uquo, is part of the legislative process leading to the passage of the Scavengers Regulation Bill, sponsored by Councillor Hon. Sampson Ntuen, representing Ward 6.
The bill seeks to register and license scavengers under the Local Government Authority for proper monitoring and accountability. It also aims to establish safety standards to protect workers from health hazards, integrate them into formal waste management systems, curb insecurity linked to unregulated scavenging, and promote the dignity of labour.
Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Ndifreke Etieket, described the hearing as a democratic platform for citizen participation, noting that it underscores the 8th Assembly’s commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and responsive governance.
He emphasised that the bill is not intended to criminalise scavenging but to bring order, protection, and sustainability to the sector. He urged participants to approach the deliberation with open minds, focusing on building a balanced framework that promotes both economic survival and public safety.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and member representing Esit Eket/Ibeno State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Udobia Friday, commended the council for its proactive lawmaking efforts.
He called for proper and transparent implementation of the bill when passed, urging the involvement of credible individuals to ensure its success for the benefit of the people.
Stakeholders also lauded the initiative, stressing the need for intensive sensitisation to ensure public understanding and compliance. They maintained that effective education and enforcement will be vital for achieving the objectives of the bill once it becomes law.
