The Delta State House of Assembly has frowned at the increasing prevalence of illegal roadblocks and extortion of commuters and traders on roads in the state.
The lawmakers, in a motion raised at plenary by the member representing Bomadi constituency, Hon. Oboro Preyor, called on the state governor, Sheriff Oborevwori to urge the state commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Service (DSS), the joint Task Force (JTF) and other relevant security agencies in the state to completely and permanently dismantle, remove and close down all existing illegal roadblocks and illegal tax collection points in the state.
Presided over by Speaker Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, the House also resolved that the individuals responsible for these illegal roadblocks and money collection points should be apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the applicable laws of the state.
The motion, amended by Hon. Ferguson Onwo representing Isoko South II constituency, further urged the Governor to establish a special task force to ensure that traders and commuters can freely use the roads without any harassment.
During the discussions on the motion, Hon. Oboro Preyor emphasized that illegal roadblocks and unauthorized money collection significantly contribute to the escalating costs of goods and services in the state. He stressed that those behind these activities often resort to physical harm and mistreatment of traders and commuters who challenge their illicit activities.
He warned that if prompt action is not taken to address this issue, it could potentially lead to a breakdown of law and order in the state.
In their contributions, various members of the assembly highlighted the criminal nature of those operating these illegal roadblocks and emphasized the necessity of addressing this issue promptly. They emphasized that these illegal roadblocks not only violate the law but also have a detrimental impact on the economic well-being of the people of Delta State and Nigerians at large.
The motion received unanimous approval through a voice vote, showcasing the assembly’s collective commitment to combat this issue.
The Speaker commended the lawmakers for their legislative acumen, noting that the motion aligns with the M.O.R.E agenda of the state governor.
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