Petroleum Marketers, supermarket operators, and other business operators in Itak, Ikono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have decried incessant cases of attack and vandalism by hoodlums.
The businessmen have complained that since the return of hoodlums who were last year arrested from the area, businesses around Nnung Udoe Itak have once again been subjected to hostilities.
The hoodlums who reportedly go from shop to shop, harassing workers and vandalizing properties, have also reportedly made life unbearable for members of the neighboring communities.
Some of the businesses attacked include Fens and Obikason filling stations, supermarkets, and other shops in the neighborhood.
Mr Michael Udofia, one of the affected businessmen who spoke with our Correspondent reported that the hoodlums had earlier asked for a landing fee on every petroleum and other products brought to the area.
“When we could not yield to their illegal demands, they started attacking our stations, snatching monies from pump attendants and even beating up some of our staff. As I speak with you now, one of our staff is lying critically in the hospital due to yesterday’s attack”. Udofia, the MD of Fens Petroleum said
The marketers, therefore call on security operatives, traditional institutions in the area, and the state. government to rise to the task of ensuring the security of lives and property around Nnung Udoe Itak, to Forestall actions that may be inimical to the growth of businesses in the state.
