Police Enforce Presidential Order 001, Crack Down on Illegal Revenue Collectors on Highways
By Innocent Eneta,
In a decisive effort to bolster the Federal Government’s policy on the ease of doing business and combat economic sabotage, the Nigeria Police Force has made significant strides in dismantling unauthorized revenue collection and multiple taxation operations along key highways in Enugu, Abakaliki, and Ebonyi. The recent crackdown led to the arrest of 20 suspects, marking a pivotal step towards eliminating illegal activities and promoting economic growth across the country.
The operation, which began on August 24, 2024, saw the first breakthrough when police operatives apprehended 14 suspects at the Abakaliki and Ebonyi boundary at 3 AM. Additional arrests were made in subsequent operations, including five suspects at Abumeje, Ogoja, and the final suspect at the Onuakpu area of Ebonyi. The five suspects have already been charged in court for economic sabotage and illegal taxation on highways, while others remain in custody at the Ebonyi Command, awaiting their court appearances.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD., NPM, emphasized the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to eradicating illegal revenue collection points and ensuring a safer environment for citizens, particularly businesspeople navigating the nation’s highways. “This operation remains a good start for the police to escalate and enforce the Presidential order on ease of doing business and the fight against illegal roadblocks, revenue collection, and multiple taxation on the highways with a view to promoting economic development in Nigeria,” said IGP Egbetokun.
The police operation is seen as a critical move towards enhancing the free flow of industrial and agricultural produce on highways, which has been hindered by illegal taxation and roadblocks. By removing these barriers, the police aim to create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive, contributing to the overall economic development of the nation.
The recent arrests and ongoing enforcement efforts underscore the Nigeria Police Force’s resolve to support the Federal Government’s initiatives to improve the business climate and ensure that the highways are free from illegal activities that stifle economic growth.
