Delta State Metals/ Steel Scraps Bill Passes Second Reading at DTHA

The Delta State Collection of Metals/ Steel Scraps today passedt the second reading at the State House of Assembly.

The development followed a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Hon Tim Owhefere and after being seconded was adopted at today's plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon Monday Igbuya.

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

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.

Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Anthony Emeka Elekeokwuri, Pat Ajudua, Evance Ivwurie, Mariere and Oboroh Preyo while supporting the bill said when passed, the bill would stipulate the payment of fees from all trucks carrying scraps and metals plying the state.

They said 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.

They lawmakers pointed out 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.

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.

At the end of the arguments, the bill scaled through the sevond 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.

Also at today's plenary, a bill for a law to establish the Delta State commissioner rights protection agency passed first reading.

The said bill which was presented by Hon Sheriff Oborevwori representing Okpe Constituency was Co-sponsored by thirteen lawmakers.

The second reading comes up on Thursday January 17, 2017.

By Patrick Ogbogu