FCT residents link scavengers to rising crime, demand authorities enforce bans and improve waste management
FCT residents in Nyanya, Karu, Jikwoyi, Mararaba and Masaka report scavengers ('Baban bola') using waste collection as cover for burglary, theft and vandalism, with some operating as armed robbers at night. Mama Amina of Mararaba described two burglaries by scavengers stealing valuables, while Ifeanyi Ike in Nyanya blamed poor waste disposal for enabling criminals. Security expert Ndu Nwokolo notes scavengers expose residents to pilfering, knife attacks and hooliganism during odd hours, urging FCT Administration to enforce refuse disposal bans and move scavengers to skills acquisition centers. Some scavengers like Ibrahim Dantata from Zamfara say they work to feed families (four wives, nine children), while others like Adamu enforce internal discipline against thieves. Residents demand authorities limit scavenger activities and provide domestic waste disposal alternatives to reduce criminal opportunities.