Armed Bandits Levy Taxes on Benue State Communities: Residents Live in Fear

  

In a troubling development, suspected armed bandits operating in Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State have started imposing taxes and levies on the residents of Torough and surrounding communities. The situation has escalated to the point where each household is being forced to pay a significant monthly levy under threat of violence.

According to an anonymous resident, the armed gangs have introduced a monthly tax of N20 million, which is to be collectively paid by the households in the affected areas. Each household has been assigned a portion of this levy, with some traditional compounds facing demands as high as N1 million. The resident emphasized the pervasive fear that grips the community, stating, "We are more or less in bondage here. There is no complete freedom of movement, association, or expression."

The resident also noted the strong communication network that the militia groups maintain, enabling them to monitor activities within the communities and swiftly retaliate against anyone who challenges their authority or reports them to the authorities. "You and your family will be eliminated in broad daylight," the resident warned, highlighting the severe consequences of defying the armed groups.

Victor Iorzaa, the Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA, confirmed the imposition of taxes by the armed bandits, identifying the leader behind this operation as a notorious bandit known as 'Full Fire.' Iorzaa stated, “It is true that armed bandits are taxing the people and are demanding N20 million. I have reported the matter to the Police and also the State Security Council.”

According to Iorzaa, 'Full Fire' has a history of collaborating with armed herdsmen to attack Tiv communities and has maintained a base in a community bordering Taraba State. This base has been the target of recent military operations, though the bandit's influence remains strong in the region.

The forced taxation has compounded the difficulties faced by the residents of Torough and nearby areas, who already contend with threats to their safety and well-being. The community is effectively under siege, with movement and daily activities severely restricted by the presence of the armed gangs.

The dire situation in Ukum LGA underscores the urgent need for increased security measures and effective intervention by state and federal authorities. Ensuring the safety of residents and restoring law and order in the affected areas is critical to alleviating the fear and oppression experienced by these communities.