![Timber sellers down tools in Bauchi, HOTPEN](https://hotpen.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/images-6-18.jpeg)
By Amina Abdullahi Girbo
All timber markets across Bauchi State have been closed down indefinitely due to what operators described as oppression, extortion and maltreatment by Hunters council, a security outfit under the Bauchi State Government.
The timber sellers on Monday embarked on a peaceful protest within the main timber market at the Muda Lawal market, Bauchi to express their displeasure over the situation they have allegedly found themselves in.
Chairman of the Association, Igbo branch, Barr. Maduabuchi Okonkwo said they were forced to take the hard decision because there was no alternative left for them.
Okonkwo said in the last 4 months, 14 vehicles loaded with woods had been arrested and detained by the hunters and had to be bailed by the members, a development he said is making life very difficult for them.
He said members are losing not less than N3m daily each time a vehicle loaded with woods is arrested by the hunters.