Anambra Sand Miners, Tipper Drivers Protest Alleged Extortion

Sand miners and tipper drivers in Anambra State have staged a protest against alleged extortion, intimidation and multiple taxation by state government agencies, particularly the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade.

The protesters gathered at the premises of the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in Onitsha, claiming that despite holding valid federal licences, they were subjected to daily levies by several local government authorities.

They argued that sand mining falls exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, accusing officials from Ogbaru, Oyi, Onitsha North and Onitsha South LGAs of unlawful interference.

Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Enough of double taxation” and “OCHA Brigade is not Police”, the protesters demanded immediate government intervention.

The miners and drivers warned that continued harassment could cripple their businesses and negatively impact Anambra State’s internally generated revenue, calling for clear regulations and an end to extortion.