Tension erupted at Eleme Junction after a commercial driver was allegedly beaten by a group of tax collectors following an argument over traffic violation and unpaid levy.
According to reports from people around the busy junction, the incident happened during the early hours of the day when the driver allegedly drove against traffic along a section of the road popularly known for heavy congestion. WATCH VIDEO HERE ➤
Eyewitnesses claimed the tax collectors stopped the vehicle and demanded payment of a road tax penalty alongside an outstanding levy said to have been overdue for some time. The situation reportedly became heated after the driver refused to comply immediately, insisting that the officials had no right to assault or intimidate him.
The disagreement quickly turned physical as the driver was allegedly dragged out of the vehicle and beaten in full public view. Passersby and traders around the area were seen gathering at the scene as the confrontation escalated.
Some drivers expressed concern over the increasing number of clashes between commercial drivers and task force officials in busy parts of the state. Many called on relevant authorities to properly regulate revenue collection activities and ensure that traffic offenders are handled lawfully without violence.
A few transport workers at the junction also reacted to the incident, saying drivers often complain about harassment and excessive force by some street enforcement agents during operations.
The driver reportedly sustained minor injuries before the intervention of people nearby helped to calm the situation. Traffic around the area was temporarily disrupted as commuters struggled to move through the crowded junction.
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been released regarding the incident. However, the development has continued to generate reactions among motorists and residents who witnessed the confrontation.
The incident has once again sparked conversations about the conduct of roadside enforcement officials and the need for professionalism in handling traffic-related offences in public places.
