Though garbage trucks collect waste in some areas, the vehicles are mostly found plying streets within the city centre.
Inhabitants of the suburbs are therefore left with the option of patronising scavengers, who move from house to house at different hours of the day, collecting trash for a fee.
These scavengers are also found on streets in some high-brow areas, digging through trash cans searching for recyclables such as plastics, iron or aluminium. In igbe community there are no such scavengers that goes around collecting waste, what they do is the pick side of the trade
However, some waste collectors abuse access to people’s homes and perpetrate criminal acts, including theft and destruction of property.
Between 2018 and 2023, many resident of igbe, igbogbo, Elepe, lost their gas cylinders of various sizes and shapes to scavengers or Baban bolar who picked it up at night or in their absence.
“My gas had finished and I wanted to refill it, so I brought the cylinder out to clean it. I went in for a short while and before I came out, I couldn’t find the cylinder. My neighbor said he saw baban bola carrying it, but he thought it was probably leaking and I had thrown it away,” she said.
Such occurrences led to restrictions on the activities of scavengers in Lagos
The Lagos State government have since Banned the activities of Scavengers on te street of Lagos , reason given was that they are dangerous to the society because of the way they operate by dumping refuse at public places other reasons were identified for the ban, including vandalisation of government properties, loss of valuables and armed robbery activities attributed to scavengers.
Years down the line, baban bola operatives have remained on the streets of Lagos especially places that are close to dump sites, and residents still face the challenges associated with them
On Community road in Banana alone several houses have been damaged by them. they remove everything to as far as the roofing sheets. some places the iron rods used for Pillars are also removed. At a building been managed by elder J.O love all materials except the blocks were removed. A twin skyscrapper at Anu oluwapo Phase2 gate had its electrical wires vandalised.
The Oladehinde Hall that is at German floor at Community road had all iron rods cut and carted away. If you have an uncompleted building its better you quickly go and check now as i am sure they have entered and done one thing. If you read this kindly suggest ways we can handle the dangers poses by these people in our various Community in Igbogbo baiyeku LCDA
Below are reasons we should end the Death called Baban Bowla
- Health Hazards: Scavengers often rummage through garbage bins, dumpsters, and other waste areas in search of valuable items or food. This exposes them to various health hazards such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites present in the waste. Additionally, scavengers may encounter hazardous materials or contaminated substances that can lead to serious illnesses or injuries.
- Public Safety Concerns: Scavenging activities can disrupt public spaces and create safety hazards for pedestrians, motorists, and residents. Scavengers may obstruct sidewalks, roadways, and other areas while searching for items, increasing the risk of accidents, congestion, and confrontations with other individuals.
- Property Damage: Scavengers often engage in destructive behavior while searching for valuable items, leading to property damage and vandalism. They may break open containers, vandalize buildings, or trespass on private property in pursuit of resources, resulting in financial losses for property owners and businesses.
- Crime and Illegal Activities: In some cases, scavenging can be associated with criminal behavior and illegal activities such as theft, trespassing, and drug-related offenses. Scavengers may exploit vulnerable communities or engage in illicit activities to support their lifestyle, contributing to social instability and law enforcement challenges.
- Environmental Impact: Scavenging activities can have adverse effects on the environment, including littering, pollution, and habitat destruction. Scavengers may leave behind trash or debris in public spaces, exacerbating waste management problems and harming ecosystems. Moreover, the extraction of valuable materials from electronic waste or other sources can lead to resource depletion and environmental degradation.
- Social Stigma and Marginalization: Scavengers often face social stigma, discrimination, and marginalization due to their economic circumstances or lifestyle choices. They may experience ostracism or mistreatment from community members, exacerbating their sense of exclusion and isolation. Furthermore, the lack of support services or opportunities for scavengers can perpetuate cycles of poverty and disadvantage.
Addressing the dangers of scavenging requires a comprehensive approach that combines efforts to address underlying social and economic issues, improve waste management systems, enhance public safety measures, and provide support services for vulnerable populations. By addressing these challenges holistically, we in our various communities can mitigate the risks associated with scavenging and promote the well-being of all individuals.
