Traders, vigilantes clash in Abia over levy
The Abia state vigilante office located in Umuahia Timber market was razed during a clash between traders and vigilantes.
The incident was said to have happened on Monday over the refusal of traders to pay an annual levy of N18,000 imposed on them by the Abia state revenue board.
The revenue board was said to have asked the traders who refused to pay the levy to shut their shops.
The traders, however, put up a resistance when the vigilantes came to enforce the order.
In a phone interview with TheCable, Geoffrey Ogbonna, the state police spokesman, said though five people were injured in the incident, no life was lost.
“Nobody was killed in the incident. Those who were injured have been treated and discharged. Investigation is ongoing to find those responsible for the fire,” he said.
Reacting in a statement, Chris Ezem, secretary to the state government, condemned the mayhem and asked the police to commence investigation into the incident.
“The attention of Abia State Government has been drawn to the recent wanton destruction of Abia Vigilante Services, AVS, Office, Timbers Market, Umuahia,” he said.
“Government frowns at this unfortunate incident and has accordingly directed the Commissioner of Police to thoroughly investigate the alleged altercation leading to the burning of AVS facilities.
“Government directs the officers and men of AVS to withdraw from the market forthwith while the leadership of the market is enjoined to assist the police identify the arsonists.
“The impunity of burning buildings and other public institutions must stop forthwith, as arson remains a very serious crime against the state and humanity, which attracts severe consequences under our laws.
“Government will promptly discipline any AVS personnel who harasses or intimidates citizens.
“Abians are enjoined to go about their normal business and avoid engaging an armed person in any fisticuffs.”
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