The Rivers State government has disbanded all local council and Ministry of Transport task forces on road decongestion following widespread complaints of harassment and extortion.

Commissioner for Transport Collins Onunwo, who announced the development, said the decision underscores the administration’s commitment to prioritising the safety and well-being of residents.

The disbandment was triggered by a viral video showing a woman being harassed and extorted of N40,000 by task force officials along Ada George Road.
Onunwo described the move as a significant step towards addressing residents’ concerns and promoting a safer, more orderly transportation system across the state.

He disclosed that a new task force would be reconstituted at an appropriate time, with measures to ensure transparency, efficiency, and accountability in its operations.

Meanwhile, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report harassment to the appropriate authorities.

“The government condemns any form of harassment, intimidation, or extortion under the guise of task force operations,” Onunwo said.
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