Boko Haram insurgents have allegedly imposed VAT and income taxes on residents of Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State to generate income.
The insurgents recently hoisted their flag in Shiroro Dam after taking over the area.
Niger state Governor, Sani Bello on Monday announced the displacement of many residents by Boko Haram insurgents around Munya and Shiroro local government areas.According to him, over 3,000 people have been displaced by bandits and Boko Haram elements around the areas.
“There are some other communities that we think are safe but a vast majority of them will have to remain here because their villages and towns have been taken over by the Boko Haram elements.“I just heard they have already placed their flag in Kauri which means they have taken over the territory,” he said, expressing fears that they could soon march on Abuja, which shares a border with Niger.A police source who fled Shiroro told Peoples Gazette that the Shiroro, Awasha, Chiri, and many others were under the control of Boko Haram insurgents, who also control trades.
According to him, the insurgents now impose taxes on local farmers and fishermen who fish around the Shiroro lake, and residents made to pay VAT when local transactions are carried out.Apart from paying taxes, residents also go farming for the insurgents.Army spokesperson, Mohammed Yerima said he was not aware of the development.However, the Niger State Police spokesman, Wasiu Abiodun, said that he would make findings about the situation.“Let me verify and get back to you,” he said.
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