By Chinedum Treasure
The Unique Development Foundation for Women (UDFW), an advocacy group for the most vulnerable people in the society, has petitioned Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo over what it described as alarming reports of harassment and extortion by operatives of the Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency, ARTMA.
UDFW, in a statement jointly signed by its Executive Director, Chief (Rtn.) Eucharia Adukwulu and Director General, Mr Izuchukwu Modecai Ubah, expressed concerns over the disturbing trend of intimidation and unlawful practices by certain ARTMA operatives.
The petition, which also copied the Anambra State House of Assembly, and Police Commissioner Ikioye Orutugu, warned that illegal activities of ARTMA operatives, especially in Onitsha, the commercial city of the State, not only undermine the rule of law but also threaten livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
The foundation reported to the Governor the case of illegal arrest of a commercial bus by ARTMA operatives in Onitsha on trump up charges allegedly with the intent of extorting the driver.
The statement read in part: “On January 15, 2026, Mr Arinze Modestus Iloanusi’s commercial bus was wrongfully seized at a petrol station near the Mgbemena-Navy Checkpoint in Onitsha.
“UDFW’s investigation revealed that the accusations that he had picked up passengers unlawfully were unfounded, raising questions about the integrity of ARTMA’s operations.
“Despite Mr Iloanusi’s repeated requests for evidence to support the alleged wrongdoing and for the immediate release of his bus, his pleas were ignored.
“His vehicle remained in custody for five days at the agency’s office behind Toronto Hospital until intervention from community leaders was made on January 22, 2026.
“This unjust detention resulted in significant financial losses for Mr Iloanusi, estimated to exceed ₦500,000, severely impacting his livelihood.
The foundation, however, called for immediate investigation into the case to ensure that justice was done.
“We are calling on Governor Soludo and others to order a thorough and transparent investigation into the actions of ARTMA operatives involved in this incident and other reports of systemic extortion.
“The Anambra State Police Command, led by Commissioner Ikioye Orutugu, must oversee the investigation to ensure fairness and hold those accountable.
” We are also demanding that adequate compensation should be provided to Mr. ILoanusi for the unlawful detention of his vehicle and the financial losses incurred.”
UDFW also called for a swift review of the ARTMA operations, emphasizing that a task force meant to ensure orderliness and free flow of traffic on our roads should not impose fear and injustice on the populace.
“As a foundation committed to advocating for justice, good governance, and the protection of vulnerable populations, we are committed to closely monitor the situation until justice is achieved for those affected by the agency’s alleged abuses.
“The UDFW seeks to remind the Anambra State Government that the citizens’ rights must be respected in all circumstances”, it adds.
