Residents of Torough and neighboring communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State are reportedly facing a new threat from suspected bandits who have begun enforcing tax and levy collections. The situation has raised concerns about security and governance in the region.
According to a local resident who spoke to THISDAY on condition of anonymity, the bandits have introduced a monthly tax of N20 million to be paid by the community.
The source revealed, “We are more or less in bondage here. There is no complete freedom of movement, association or expression. These militia boys are very deadly and powerful here in our Sankera axis.”
The resident further explained that households are being levied N50,000 each, with some traditional compounds facing demands of up to N1 million. The fear of retribution has prevented many from reporting these activities to security agencies.
Mr. Victor Iorzaa, the Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA, confirmed the development to newsmen.
He stated, “It is true that bandits are taxing the people and are demanding N20 million. I have reported the matter to the police and also the State Security Council.”
Iorzaa identified the leader behind these activities as a bandit known as “Full Fire,” who has allegedly been terrorizing the area for the past five years.
The situation extends beyond Torough, affecting the entire Sankera axis, which includes Logo, Ukum, and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas. This widespread impact has heightened concerns about the reach and influence of these armed groups.
However, Joseph Har, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, offered a different perspective. He claimed that the bandits are on the run from the state and suggested they lack the capability to collect taxes from villagers.
Har stated, “The criminals have been having very tough time of recent and they are really having the heat and cannot have the guts to wait and collect any tax.”
This conflicting information highlights the complex nature of the security situation in Benue State. While local residents and officials report ongoing extortion, state authorities maintain that the bandits are being effectively combated.
The imposition of illegal levies by bandits is not unique to Benue State but reflects a broader trend observed in various parts of Nigeria and other countries facing similar security challenges. Such activities often serve as a means for these groups to sustain their operations and exert control over local populations.
As the situation unfolds, the effectiveness of the government’s response and the impact on the affected communities remain critical points of concern.
