The Imo State Government has issued a ban on all forms of task forces operating within the state, particularly within the Owerri metropolis. The decision came after numerous public complaints about task force groups engaging in intimidation and extortion. These groups, which were originally intended to maintain order and enforce regulations, were reported to have deviated from their core responsibilities, instead harassing citizens and demanding illegal payments.
In a press statement from I.A. Oguzie, representing the Secretary to the State Government, the government made it clear that this move was necessary to protect the public image of the administration and curb lawlessness. The ban is immediate, and the authorities have instructed security agencies to apprehend anyone found operating as a task force. These groups, which exist across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), are expected to face the full legal consequences for their actions.
The statement emphasized that the proliferation of unregulated groups, especially in the transport sector and marketplaces, has created widespread difficulties for citizens. These groups, without government approval, were imposing illegal fines and creating chaos.
Public analyst Ugochukwu Eze praised the government’s decision, noting that task forces in the state had become a major issue, particularly in transport and market sectors. He explained that while the groups were initially established to enforce regulations and maintain order, they had instead become a source of exploitation for citizens, thus making the government’s decision timely and necessary.