Benue Motorists Report Police and Military Extortion

Motorists using the Gboko-Zaki Biam Road in Benue State have accused police and military personnel of extorting money from commercial drivers at multiple checkpoints. Drivers reported that security operatives demanded between N200 and N1,000, creating a daily burden for transport operators.

Reuben Tor highlighted the poor condition of the Gboko-Katsina-Ala Road, which exacerbates the challenges faced by motorists, while extortion continues unabated. Another driver, Samson Agada, described the checkpoints as sources of unlawful revenue, appealing for intervention from the Benue State and federal governments.

Observations along the road confirmed the presence of police and military personnel collecting money from drivers. This situation persists despite a directive from the Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, ordering the dismantling of illegal checkpoints and warning of disciplinary action against violators.

Motorists have called for compliance with this order and action against security personnel involved in illegal collections.