The Ebonyi House of Assembly has officially approved a bill aimed at managing the scrap metal industry, housing rents, and estate agency charges. Titled the Ebonyi State Sale of Scraps, House Rent and Agent Fees Regulation Law, 2026, the measure awaits the signature of Governor Francis Nwifuru to become active. Speaker Moses Odunwa presided over the session where the law was passed to prevent vandalism and stop the exploitation of tenants.
Under the new rules, only licensed operators may buy, sell, or transport metal and electrical scraps. Violations could result in a fine of up to N500,000 or a jail sentence of two years. Similarly, landlords who engage in fraudulent practices regarding rental agreements face up to two years behind bars. The law also mandates that agents cap their fees at two percent of the total transaction value and requires all agents in the state capital to register with the Ministry of Capital City.
House Leader Kingsley Ikoro noted that the bill is essential for protecting public infrastructure from theft and curbing unfair practices within the rental market. Other legislators supported the bill, noting that it will bring much-needed order to the property sector. Beyond this legislation, the House also approved the 2025 consolidated financial audit report and confirmed nine appointments for the Amasiri Development Centre in Afikpo.
