Hoodlums attack NSCDC, IGR agents, injure four in Ebonyi

No fewer than two hundred thugs have attacked personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and operatives of the Ebonyi State Internally Generated Revenue Service enforcing e-ticketing, severely injuring four people.

The attack occurred at Amudo Market in Ezza South Local Government Area of the state over the weekend.

According to sources, the hoodlums were led by the youth president of Ezza South, allegedly sponsored by one Simon Nwifuru, also known as Dangote, who is a brother to the governor.

It was gathered that the coordinated attack was reportedly orchestrated by the governor’s brother, who claims to be in charge of keke riders, alongside one Douglas Ochishi, who is said to be parading as a ‘contractor’ to okada riders. The attack was allegedly planned in conjunction with the state chairman of okada and keke riders, as well as riders from Abaomege, who mobilised in large numbers and laid an ambush against officers of the state’s civil defence security team and the e-ticketing team of IRS CONSULT while they were returning from enforcement operations in Afikpo and Edda local government areas.

Reports indicate that the attackers, allegedly armed with cutlasses and guns, barricaded the road with logs of wood, took control of a major route, and overpowered the enforcement teams of both the e-ticketing operation and civil defence personnel.

An eyewitness, Nweke Timothy, recounted, “They (the thugs) numbered over two hundred and immediately released all the motorists who had been arrested. It was a terrifying scene, and many people fled the market out of fear. The tension was very high.”

One of the enforcement team members who survived the attack, identified as Samuel, described the incident as a serious act of sabotage against the Ebonyi State Government’s efforts to boost revenue and curb the sale of illegal tickets, which leads to financial leakages. “They print and sell tickets at will, short-changing the state government,” he stated.

A member of the Ebonyi State Internal Revenue Service, who requested anonymity, revealed that the adoption of e-ticketing operations had been approved by the State Executive Council on 8 October 2024 to curb revenue leakages and enhance efficiency.

“We urge the state government to investigate this disturbing incident, arrest, and prosecute all those involved, regardless of their status,” the source pleaded.

Since the automation was officially launched on 4 November 2024, adequate sensitisation has been carried out prior to enforcement, ensuring compliance with the State Board of Internal Revenue.

He lamented, “Imagine that the thugs also seized three mobile phones from the e-ticketing team and left many injured, who are now receiving treatment in hospital. We condemn this act and demand justice for the victims, as well as punishment for the perpetrators.”

In a related development, one Mr Henry, a staff member of the e-ticketing team, was reportedly beaten unconscious and sustained injuries to his head, hand, and eyes at Tom Gadas filling station in Afikpo. He was allegedly attacked by individuals selling illegal tickets. The case was reported at the Afikpo police division, and the suspect was arrested and taken to the police headquarters in Abakaliki.

Eyewitnesses stated that the intervention of Hon. Ukie Ezeali, member representing Afikpo North East Constituency in the State House of Assembly (popularly known as P-Noble), led to a resolution. He assured okada and keke riders that they must cooperate and comply with the state government’s directive, resulting in the suspect’s release from police custody in Abakaliki.

Staff members of the e-ticketing project have faced serious threats over the past few weeks due to their role in implementing the new revenue collection system in Ebonyi State.

He further stated, “We call on the state government to do everything possible to protect our team during field operations.”

“We have held several meetings with okada riders, urging them to comply with government directives to ensure that revenues paid are properly accounted for and beneficial to the government. Since last year, we have conducted extensive sensitisation via radio and newspapers to help riders understand that it is better to pay their levies to the government rather than to touts.”

Ebonyi remains the only state in the South East region yet to automate its revenue collection system, a matter of grave concern for the government, the people, and investors, who frequently complain about harassment by touts diverting payments into private pockets.

As directed by the governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the transportation sector—particularly keke (tricycle) and okada riders—is transitioning to the e-ticketing payment method.

Condemning the incident, the Chairman of Ezza South Local Government Area, Mrs Euphemia Nwali, assured that further investigations would be carried out and the perpetrators brought to justice.

Reacting to the incident, the Executive Chairman of the Ebonyi State Board of Internal Revenue Service, Rt. Hon. Christopher Omo-Isu, strongly condemned the attack, stating, “I am deeply saddened and outraged by the recent assault on enforcement officers and staff members of the e-ticketing team in our state. This appalling act of violence by hoodlums not only threatens the safety of our dedicated workforce but also undermines the progress we have made in implementing crucial revenue collection systems essential for Ebonyi State’s development.”

“Our e-ticketing team plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with tax policies and facilitating a transparent and efficient revenue collection process. Their safety and well-being are of the utmost importance. We stand in solidarity with our staff across all 13 local government areas and extend our heartfelt appreciation for their hard work and commitment to serving the citizens of Ebonyi.”

“I want to assure the public and our staff that we are treating this incident with the seriousness it deserves. We are in close collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice. We will not condone any form of violence or intimidation against individuals fulfilling their duty to our state.”

“Furthermore, we will convene a meeting with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to discuss measures that will enhance the safety of our staff and ensure the continuation of our vital work without fear of reprisal.”

“We urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Let us work together to foster a peaceful environment where progress can thrive.”

“In conclusion, I reaffirm our commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that all those who threaten our peace and the integrity of our state’s operations are held accountable,” Omo-Isu declared.