The Nigerian Police Force, headquartered in Abuja, announced the arrest of 20 suspects involved in unauthorized revenue collection and multiple taxation on the Enugu, Abakaliki, and Ebonyi highways. The arrests are seen as a significant move to curb illegal activities and promote economic growth, ensuring the free movement of industrial and agricultural goods across the country.
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumiyiwa Adejobi, emphasized that these arrests represent a crucial step in supporting the Federal Government’s policy on the ease of doing business while combating economic sabotage and illegal taxation. According to Adejobi, the Nigeria Police Force made the initial breakthrough on August 24, 2024, arresting 14 suspects at the Abakaliki and Ebonyi boundary at 3 AM. Subsequent arrests included five suspects apprehended at Abumeje, Ogoja, and one suspect at the Onuakpu area of Ebonyi. Five of the suspects have already been charged in court for economic sabotage and illegal taxation, while others, currently in custody at the Ebonyi Command, will soon face legal proceedings.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to dismantling all illegal revenue collection points and eradicating illegal taxation, thereby creating a safer and more secure environment for citizens, particularly businesspeople in Nigeria.
He stated, “This operation is a strong beginning for the police to intensify efforts to enforce the Presidential directive on the ease of doing business, combat illegal roadblocks, and eradicate unauthorized revenue collection and multiple taxation on highways, all with the goal of promoting economic development in Nigeria.”
