Cross River Government Dismantles 50 Unauthorized Revenue Points

Cross River Government Dismantles 50 Unauthorized Revenue Points

The Cross River State Government has taken down over 50 illegal revenue checkpoints situated across various areas in the state……read also FAAN Introduces E-Tag Payments Across All 24 Federal Airports, Starting May 17, 2024

This action follows a thorough monitoring and inspection operation spearheaded by Mr. Bassey Ita Edet, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tolls Collection, particularly in the northern region of the state.

Reports reveal that these unauthorized points have been utilized by individuals to unlawfully extract money from commuters traversing the state’s roads.

Edet emphasized that the crackdown on illegal checkpoints and tolls aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s “People’s First” agenda, underscoring the government’s commitment to eradicating such illicit practices.

He asserted that his team has been mandated to enforce, monitor, and inspect all officially approved checkpoints and toll collection sites to ensure adherence to regulations and due processes.

Edet issued a stern warning to those obstructing the government’s efforts to curb illegal tax collections, emphasizing that such behavior would not be tolerated any longer.

Further investigations revealed that vehicles transporting goods were subjected to a fee of N27,000, with non-compliance resulting in the seizure of the vehicles by authorities.

Some victims of these roadside harassments alleged the involvement of military personnel in enforcing these extortions.

Expressing his grievances, a driver named Etom Daniel, who operates along the Cross River North routes, highlighted the burden of additional road taxes in other parts of the state. He also lamented the negative impact of these practices on the costs of essential goods and agricultural produce in Cross River State.

Daniel expressed concerns that certain individuals, lacking understanding of public administration, were tarnishing the governor’s reputation through their actions, suggesting that the governor might be unaware of the extent of harassment and extortion perpetrated by these individuals.