Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has issued a stern warning to local authorities and revenue agents against collecting taxes or levies from petty traders in the state.
Soludo gave the warning while addressing supporters during a rally at Ekwulọbịa in Aguata Local Government Area.
He urged all concerned to desist from extorting small-scale traders, stressing that his administration remains committed to protecting their livelihoods.
The governor’s remarks followed his visit to Eke Market in Awgbu, where he observed that some agents were still collecting levies from petty traders with less than ₦100,000 capital — in violation of an existing government directive.
“Don’t collect from them anymore. We will arrest anybody that goes ahead to disregard this. Our government is committed to protecting the livelihoods of petty traders,” Soludo warned.
The governor had, two years ago, abolished all forms of taxes on traders with goods worth less than ₦100,000, as well as levies on hawkers, barrow pushers, and vulcanizers.
At the rally, Soludo expressed appreciation to the Ekwulọbịa community for their continuous support to his administration, commending their resilience and unity in the face of challenges.
A cheque of ₦80 million, donated by prominent sons of Ekwulọbịa, was presented to Governor Soludo and his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, in support of their ongoing political campaign.
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