The Delta State Government has initiated a crackdown on illegal revenue collectors operating along the Benin-Asaba highway, specifically targeting truck drivers transporting granite from Edo State. This action follows a public outcry by the Union of Tippers and Quarry Employers of Nigeria, who accused these unauthorized individuals of extortion, harassment, and violence against their members. The illegal checkpoints, primarily located in Alifekede and Agbor, have become notorious for exploiting truck drivers, demanding exorbitant “road passage fees” under the threat of physical harm. This illicit activity not only disrupts the flow of commerce but also poses a significant safety risk to drivers and the general public.
The union’s chairman, Mr. Wilson Ogbachi, detailed the harrowing experiences of truck drivers at the hands of these extortionists. He described how they employ dangerous weapons, including nail-studded planks, to intimidate drivers into compliance. The forced payments, often accompanied by the issuance of dubious receipts purporting to be from official government bodies, highlight the brazen nature of this illegal operation. The union’s plea to the state government underscores the urgent need for intervention to protect their members from these predatory practices. The drivers are forced to endure not only financial exploitation but also the constant threat of physical violence, creating a climate of fear and insecurity along this vital transportation artery.
The Delta State Government’s response, spearheaded by the Executive Director (Operation) of the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Mr. Frank Nwagu, has been swift and decisive. He categorically denounced the activities of these illegal revenue collectors, confirming that they operate without any official sanction. Nwagu’s statement unequivocally disavowed any connection between the government and the fraudulent receipts being issued, reinforcing the illegality of their operations. His call for the immediate arrest of these individuals signals a firm commitment to restoring order and protecting the rights of truck drivers. This clear stance against illicit revenue collection demonstrates the government’s resolve to address this pressing issue and ensure the safety and security of those operating within the state’s transportation sector.
The situation at Anifekede exposes a deeper problem of illegal revenue collection, a practice that undermines legitimate government revenue streams and fuels corruption. The extortion of truck drivers not only impacts their livelihoods but also increases the cost of goods transported, ultimately affecting consumers. The government’s intervention is crucial not only to address the immediate concerns of the truck drivers but also to dismantle the illegal networks that perpetuate this practice. A thorough investigation is necessary to identify the individuals involved and bring them to justice, as well as to implement measures that prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of truck drivers, who often operate in isolated areas and are susceptible to exploitation by criminal elements. The use of violence and intimidation by these illegal revenue collectors further exacerbates their plight, creating a climate of fear and insecurity. The government’s commitment to arresting these individuals is a welcome step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of truck drivers and restoring order along the Benin-Asaba highway. Further measures, such as increased patrols and surveillance, may be necessary to deter future illegal activities and protect drivers from further harassment.
The ongoing investigation into this matter will be crucial in determining the extent of the illegal revenue collection operation and identifying all those involved. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust oversight and regulation within the transportation sector to prevent such illicit activities. The government’s decisive action in this case sends a strong message that such practices will not be tolerated, and that those responsible will be held accountable. The long-term solution requires not only enforcement but also systemic changes that address the root causes of illegal revenue collection, ensuring a safe and fair operating environment for all stakeholders in the transportation industry. This includes strengthening regulatory frameworks, improving transparency, and promoting ethical conduct within the revenue collection process.
