Bandits Demand N20 Million Monthly Levies from Benue Communities

Armed bandits in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State have begun imposing taxes on residents of Torough and surrounding communities, demanding N20 million per month from each household.

A local resident, speaking anonymously due to fear of retaliation, confirmed the gangs have started collecting the levies after assigning tax amounts to each household. “We are effectively in bondage here,” the resident said, describing the pervasive fear and lack of freedom under the militia’s control. “No one dares to challenge them or report to the authorities.”

The entire Sankera axis, comprising the LGAs of Logo, Ukum, and Katsina-Ala, is affected by the bandits’ activities. The resident explained, “These boys have a very strong communication network and monitor everything. Reporting to security agencies would mean certain death for you and your family.”

Ukum LGA Caretaker Chairman, Mr. Victor Iorzaa, confirmed the situation. He identified the militia leader as ‘Full Fire,’ a notorious bandit previously involved in attacks with armed herdsmen against the Tiv people. “Full Fire has been terrorizing the area for the past five years,” Iorzaa said, noting that the state government and security forces are working to curb these activities.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, disputed the band’s ability to levy taxes, claiming that intensified security efforts have forced many bandits to flee. “The bandits are on the run and cannot collect taxes,” Har asserted. “We are determined to sustain this momentum until they are neutralized or surrender.”

However, Police Public Relations Officer Catherine Anene reported that the command had not received any official complaints regarding the levies.