Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups engaged in the unauthorized collection of levies, tolls, and dues in markets across the state. The governor described such activities as unlawful and exploitative, stressing that his administration would no longer tolerate actions that frustrate traders and hinder economic growth.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Friday, Governor Soludo emphasized that only the state government and its duly recognized agents are authorized to collect revenue. He noted that many traders have suffered harassment and intimidation at the hands of illegal revenue collectors, who impose multiple levies under the guise of market associations or task forces.
The governor warned that anyone caught extorting traders or imposing unauthorized charges would face severe consequences, including arrest and prosecution. He reiterated that his administration is committed to building a transparent and accountable revenue system that promotes business growth and enhances the welfare of citizens.
According to Soludo, the state government has already introduced digital payment systems and other transparent processes to eliminate human interference in revenue collection. These reforms, he said, are designed to ensure that all funds go directly into government coffers for the development of infrastructure, education, and healthcare services across Anambra.
He also urged market leaders to cooperate with the government by exposing individuals or groups who engage in illegal levy collection. Soludo assured traders that his administration’s policies are aimed at creating a business-friendly environment where commerce can thrive without fear of extortion or intimidation.
The governor further warned security agencies and local government officials against collaborating with illegal collectors, stressing that such behavior undermines public trust and the government’s reform agenda. He directed that surveillance teams be deployed to monitor markets and ensure strict compliance with the state’s revenue regulations.
Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Anambra one of Nigeria’s most business-friendly states. He said his government would continue to support market modernization, infrastructure development, and digital transformation to boost trade and empower small-scale entrepreneurs across the state.
