By Hosea Parah,Abuja
Residents and business owners in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State have raised alarm over what they describe as the illegal and violent takeover of revenue collection by touts, popularly known as Agboro. Reports from across the LGA indicate that these individuals operate with impunity, using threats, physical force, and public humiliation to extort money from citizens under the guise of tax and levy collection.
From petty traders to commercial motorcyclists (okada riders), car owners, and even individuals attempting to drill boreholes, no one appears exempt from the aggressive tactics of these street-level tax collectors. Victims recount being harassed, assaulted, and forced to pay unreceipted fees without explanation or recourse.
“This is not taxation, it’s extortion,” said a shop owner in Mararaba who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation. “They come with sticks and threaten to beat us if we don’t pay. They don’t wear any official identification. And after all that, our roads are still bad, and there’s no water or power improvement.”
Local residents have also raised questions about where the collected funds are going. Despite the aggressive revenue drive, communities report a glaring absence of public services or infrastructure projects, fueling suspicions of mismanagement or outright embezzlement of public funds.
Civil rights advocates warn that the current system undermines the rule of law and discourages economic development. “This is a breakdown of governance,” said a representative from a local human rights organization. “Revenue collection should be handled transparently by trained government officials—not violent middlemen with no accountability.”
As frustration builds, there are growing calls for the Nasarawa State Government and the Karu LGA authorities to intervene immediately. Concerned citizens are urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate the matter and hold those responsible accountable.
“This isn’t just a local issue—it’s a warning sign,” said one activist. “If Karu falls to lawlessness, other LGAs could follow.”
At the time of this report, Karu LGA officials have not publicly responded to inquiries regarding the role of Agboro in local revenue collection.
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