According to news published by Vanguard, in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria, residents are facing a severe crisis as armed bandits have started demanding exorbitant taxes and levies. The bandits, operating mainly in Torough and nearby communities, have imposed a monthly tax of N20 million, which is shared among the households. Each household is forced to pay N50,000, while larger traditional compounds are required to pay up to N1 million.
The residents, gripped by fear, have no choice but to comply with these demands. A local resident, speaking anonymously to avoid reprisal, explained that the villagers live in constant fear and have no freedom of movement, association, or expression. “These militia boys are very deadly and powerful here in our Sankera axis,” the resident said, highlighting the control the bandits have over the area. The resident also noted that the situation affects the three LGAs in the Sankera axis: Logo, Ukum, and Katsina-Ala.
The bandits' leader, known as 'Full Fire,' is believed to be behind these extortion activities. The Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA, Mr. Victor Iorzaa, confirmed the bandits' actions and reported the matter to the police and the State Security Council. According to Mr. Iorzaa, 'Full Fire' has been a significant threat in the region, having collaborated with armed herdsmen to attack the local Tiv people. Despite recent military action against his base, 'Full Fire' continues to terrorize the area.
“The people are living in fear. That community is the most troubled place in the LGA,” Mr. Iorzaa said. He added that the state government under Governor Hyacinth Alia is working diligently to end the bandits' activities, with security operatives making concerted efforts to address the issue.
However, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, offered a different perspective. He claimed that the bandits are already on the run and incapable of collecting taxes from villagers. Mr. Har acknowledged that bandits worldwide often resort to such extortion to survive, but he insisted that the government would not allow such practices to continue unchallenged. He asserted that the bandits are experiencing significant pressure and many have fled their camps, indicating the government's efforts are starting to show results.