Delta State Collection of Metal/Steel Scrap Fees Bill Passes Second Reading

The Delta State Collection of Metals/Steel Scraps Fees Bill has scaled through its second reading at the State House of Assembly.

The Majority Leader moved a motion for the second reading of the Delta State Collection of Metal/Steel Scrap Fees Bill and was seconded by Minority Leader, Hon. Okoh Festus.

Hon Owhefere while presenting the bill said the document when passed would enable government convert wasteful wealth to a veritable source of huge wealth for the benefit of the state.

The Majority Leader noted that the bill is not just to generate revenue but protect and regularize the Metal/Steel Scrap Business.

He observed that some states across the federation have commenced the regulation of metals on a daily basis, adding that the bill sought to activate the payment of fees on trucks, cars and wheelbarrows carrying scraps, which will invariably boost the revenue base of the state.

In the bill, all scrap dumpsites would be registered, while identity cards would be issued to them as that would bring dignity to the scrap and metal industry. It also stipulates that there will be payment of fees from all trucks carrying scraps and metals plying the state.

While supporting the bill, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Hon Anthony Elekeokwuri, Hon Pat Ajudua, Hon Evance Ivwurie and Hon Oboroh Preyo said when passed, the bill would contribute to the internally generated revenue of the state. Thus actualizing Delta Beyond Oil programme for the development of the state.

They lawmakers also added that scrap business was a lucrative one, which needed to be regulated to enhance its potentials in the state.

However, Hon Reuben Izeze representing Ughelli South Constituency while speaking against the bill raised constitutional provision from the fourth schedule section (d) and (e) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Which gives power to the Local Government for the collection of taxes or licensing of bicycles, trucks, other than mechanically propel trucks, canons, wheelbarrows & cars. Establishment, maintenance regulations of slaughter houses, slot/markets motor parks including waste disposal.

Hon Izeze argued that the bill was a function of the local government as enshrined in the constitution, adding that any future payment of fees by trucks carrying scraps or vendors would amount to double taxation.

However, the bill scaled through the second reading when put to a voice vote by the Speaker who referred the bill to the House Committee on Commerce and Industry for future legislative inputs.