Enugu Governor Mbah Suspends Daily Market Toll Collection, Cracks Down on Illegal Revenue
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has taken decisive action against illegal revenue collectors and extortionists who have been exacerbating the hardships faced by residents. In a significant move, the governor announced an immediate and indefinite suspension of daily toll collection from petty traders who do not operate from lockup shops, labeling the practice as unlawful. This announcement was made during a stakeholders' meeting focused on clarifying and harmonizing revenue collection processes across markets in the state.
Governor's Directive and Taskforce Implementation
Governor Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, emphasized that this suspension aligns with new tax legislation designed to support economically disadvantaged individuals. To ensure strict adherence to the directive, a taskforce has been established, chaired by the SSG. The governor issued a stern warning that anyone caught collecting the daily tolls of N100 or N200, whether on behalf of the government or private individuals, will face severe legal consequences. He clarified that this order does not affect traders in lockup shops, who are required to pay annual fees of N30,000 or N36,000, underscoring his administration's commitment to alleviating public suffering rather than aggravating it.
Call for Public Cooperation and Police Action
In a bid to foster transparency and accountability, Governor Mbah urged local council chairmen, traditional rulers, market leaders, Presidents-General, civil society organizations, and the general public to report any violations of the suspension to the taskforce. Concurrently, the Enugu State Police Command has taken legal action against individuals involved in illicit activities. On the same day as the governor's announcement, two suspects, Mr. Christopher Ifeanyi, aged 65, and Chinenye Ugwu, were arraigned before an Enugu Magistrate Court. They face charges related to stealing, forgery of receipts, and illegal revenue collection, specifically for fraudulently registering native doctors using counterfeit documents from the Enugu North Local Council Area.
This coordinated effort highlights the administration's robust approach to curbing corruption and ensuring fair economic practices. By suspending the daily tolls and prosecuting offenders, Governor Mbah aims to create a more equitable environment for traders and residents, reinforcing the state's dedication to lawful governance and public welfare. The stakeholders' meeting, organized by the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu, served as a platform to address these critical issues and set a new precedent for revenue management in the region.
