Residents of Torough and neighboring communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State have reportedly been subjected to tax and levy collections enforced by suspected bandits.
A community resident, who requested anonymity due to fear of reprisal, revealed that the bandits had imposed a monthly tax of N20 million on the community.
He explained that challenging the armed gangs or reporting to security agencies was unthinkable, even for village heads, as the consequences could be fatal.
"We are essentially in bondage here, with restricted freedom of movement, association, and expression. These militia groups are extremely powerful in our Sankera axis," he said.
The resident further noted that the entire Sankera region, comprising the Logo, Ukum, and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas, was affected by these criminal activities.
"These bandits have a sophisticated communication network for their operations, monitoring everything. When the N20 million levy was announced, no one dared to report it to security agencies.
"Each household is paying the N50,000 levy, and larger traditional compounds are being charged up to N1 million," he added.
Victor Iorzaa, the Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA, confirmed the situation to local news outlets, stating, "It is true that bandits are taxing the people and demanding N20 million.
"I have reported the matter to the police and the State Security Council. The individual behind this is a notorious bandit known as ‘Full Fire,’ who has previously collaborated with armed herdsmen to attack Tiv communities.
"The people are living in fear, and this community is particularly troubled."
Mr Victor Iorzaa, the Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA mentioned that the government, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, and security operatives are making concerted efforts to address the issue.
"The bandit has been terrorizing the area for the past five years, but the government is working hard to put an end to these activities," he said.
Joseph Har, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Internal Security, responded to the incident by stating that bandits in the state were already on the run and unable to collect taxes from villagers.
"The issue of illegal levies is common among bandits worldwide as a means of survival, but no government will tolerate such actions.
"The criminals are facing significant pressure and cannot afford to collect any taxes," Mr Har asserted. "Many have fled their camps, and we intend to maintain this momentum until they are either apprehended or surrendered."
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer Catherine Anene stated that the Command had not yet received a report on the development.
