From ‘no sales’ to hospital bed: Benue trader allegedly brutalised over levy

The Incident at Igbor Market

For a female trader at Igbor market in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, Monday morning was intended to be a routine day of commerce. Instead, a dispute over a market levy reportedly escalated into a violent confrontation that left her bleeding and in need of urgent medical attention.

The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was allegedly assaulted after informing two men that she had not made any sales and was unable to pay the required levy. The men, identified as Terwase Abere and Mayange Aondowase, reportedly disregarded her plea, leading to the physical altercation. The incident has triggered significant concern regarding the treatment of vulnerable traders and the methods employed by those tasked with revenue collection.

Following the report of the assault, the Special Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har, directed the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) to apprehend the individuals involved. The suspects have since been taken into custody as the state government seeks to address the matter.

Official Reaction and Accountability

Chief Joseph Har has condemned the use of force in the strongest terms, asserting that no disagreement over market fees justifies the brutalisation of a citizen. He has ordered that the suspects be handed over to the Police for formal investigation and potential prosecution to ensure justice for the victim.

In whatever reason, they are no such rights. So I've asked them to prepare a letter to hand them over to the Police for prosecution.

— Chief Joseph Har, Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs, Benue State Government

Har’s directive emphasises the administration's stance on the limits of authority. He noted that individuals must not hide behind security roles to harass or intimidate members of the public, particularly those in vulnerable economic positions.

Conflicting Accounts and Widening Investigation

During questioning, the suspects provided an account that shifted some responsibility to their superiors. They claimed to be volunteers attached to the Gwer East BSCPG Command and stated they were acting on instructions from their Ward Commander and another official to bring the woman to their office over an unresolved matter.

According to the suspects, the situation turned violent only after the woman allegedly refused to accompany them. They claimed they were subsequently instructed to carry out the arrest "even by force." This testimony has prompted Chief Har to expand the scope of the investigation, directing the BSCPG State Commander to produce the officials who reportedly issued those orders.

Warning Against the Abuse of Power

The case serves as a critical test of the government's ability to regulate its internal security apparatus and protect citizens from administrative overreach. Har issued a stern warning to all personnel parading as security operatives, reminding them that they are subject to the law.

The law will catch up with anyone hiding under the cover of security to harass or intimidate citizens.

— Chief Joseph Har, Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs, Benue State Government

As the victim recovers from her injuries, the outcome of the police investigation is expected to clarify whether the assault was an isolated act of aggression or the result of a systemic failure in the command structure of the local security volunteers.