‘Federal Task Force’ Cracks Down on Illegal Checkpoints in Wukari

 

The Taraba State team of the Federal Task Force against Economic Sabotage and Multiple Taxation, under Presidential Order 001, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, led by the State Coordinator Hon. Isa Nawe (Limited), intensified efforts yesterday to dismantle illegal checkpoints and roadblocks across the state.

 

The operation commenced in Wukari Local Government Area in the southern part of the state and extended to major highways connecting Wukariand its environs. Eight suspects were apprehended by security operatives attached to the task force and are currently awaiting prosecution.

 

This initiative aligns with the team's mandate to remove all illegal checkpoints and roadblocks across the state to ensure free traffic flow and promote ease of doing business on federal highways.

 

The task force's mission, as outlined in Presidential Order 001, focuses on curbing economic sabotage and multiple taxation. Recently, the team carried out a statewide sensitization campaign to educate the public about its mandate. During the campaign, citizens were reminded that federal highways are not designated for revenue collection. All activities involving loading and offloading of goods should be conducted at approved points, not on highways.

 

Despite repeated warnings, some individuals continued to defy directives, erecting illegal checkpoints and roadblocks to extort money from motorists. This prompted the task force to launch its full-scale operations.

 

Hon. Isa Nawe reaffirmed the task force's commitment to eradicating all forms of economic sabotage and illegal taxation in the state. He acknowledged the support of various government agencies and the state government in ensuring the success of this operation.

 

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode AdeoluEgbetokun, also lent his support by deploying a special squad to assist the Presidential Task Force in the North Eastern states. The squad's first mission in Taraba State significantly bolstered efforts to clear federal highways of illegal activities, enhancing ease of doing business in the country.

 

 

The Commissioner of Commerce, Trade, and Industry, Hon. Peter George, embarked on a tour to present awards of excellence to the heads of security agencies within Jalingometropolist, Taraba State.

 

Hon. George, accompanied by a delegation of commissioners, leaders of trade unions, markets unions, business organizations, and traditional rulers, visited the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army headquarters, Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, Department of State Security Service, and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Taraba State chapter.

 

During the visit, Hon. George commended the Nigerian Army for their gallant efforts in ensuring peace and tranquility in Taraba State. 

 

He noted that farmers and traders can now go about their businesses without fear of insecurity. 

 

Hon. George also expressed gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefasfor prioritizing security and providing necessary support to security agencies.

 

The Commanding Officer of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidebere Uwa, welcomed Hon. George and his entourage. 

 

He acknowledged the commissioner's efforts and he said since assuming office, they have successfully flushed out various forms of crime, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.

 

Brigadier Uwa thanked Governor Kefas for his support and assured that Taraba State will be safer than ever before.

 

Other heads of security forces, including the Taraba State Commissioner of Police, Ukachi Peter Opara, also pledged their commitment to working together to combat insecurity and crime in Taraba State. 

 

They equally expressed gratitude to the Governor Dr. Kefas for his efforts in supporting security agencies and ensuring that Taraba State remains peaceful.