Taskforce Trouble: Imo Youths Storm ENTRACO Office Over Motorist’s Death in Owerri North

Tension rocked Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State on Friday as angry youths from Naze community stormed the premises of the Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO) to protest the death of a motorist allegedly caused by taskforce operations.

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The tragic incident occurred after a driver rammed into a truck immobilized by officials of the Ministry of Transport’s Truck Enforcement Department. The youths, blaming taskforce excesses for the fatal crash, mobilized en masse to ENTRACO headquarters in Owerri.

What Triggered the Protest?

Eyewitnesses explained that the Ministry’s enforcement agents had blocked a truck outside the approved operational hours of 6am to 6 pm, creating a dangerous obstruction. Unfortunately, the victim’s vehicle collided with the truck, leading to instant death.

Videos from the scene showed hundreds of young people chanting solidarity songs, carrying placards, and demanding justice for the deceased motorist.

ENTRACO’s Response

In a swift reaction, ENTRACO dissociated itself from the incident. The agency’s spokesperson, Darlington Chidera Ibekwe, clarified that ENTRACO only provides office space for multiple agencies including Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

“We sympathize deeply with the family of the victim. However, the truck immobilization was not carried out by ENTRACO but by the Ministry of Transport’s enforcement team. Each agency operates independently within the premises,” Ibekwe stated.

Community Anger and Calls for Reform

The Naze youths accused the taskforce of reckless practices, extortion, and harassment of motorists across Owerri. They insisted that this latest death highlighted the urgent need for the state government to reform road enforcement operations, especially at night.

One protest leader, who declined to give his name, lamented:

“Our brother died because these people think they own the roads. Blocking trucks at night is madness. This is not enforcement, it is wickedness.”

The Bigger Picture

Imo State residents have long criticized taskforce-style enforcement, often linked to multiple agencies working without clear coordination. Friday’s incident has reignited debates about whether such operations truly enhance road safety or merely expose motorists to more dangers.

The state government has yet to issue a formal statement as of the time of reporting, but community members vow to continue protests until reforms are implemented.

Key Facts at a Glance