Stop collecting levy from petty traders, Soludo warns govt officials

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By Madu Obi

Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has warned government officials against collecting levy from petty traders.

The governor gave the warning while addressing a political rally at Ekwulọbịa, Aguata local government area, during which he emphasized the importance of the community’s involvement in local governance.

It was gathered that his call stemmed from an earlier visit to Eke market in Awgbu, Orumba North local government area, where it was observed that levies were still being collected from petty traders with less than one hundred thousand naira capital, against government directive.

“Don’t collect from them anymore. We will arrest anybody that goes ahead to disregard this,” he warned, reaffirming his commitment to protecting the livelihoods of petty traders.

Soludo expressed gratitude for the community's support for his administration and highlighted the significance of Ekwulọbịa in Anambra State.

He recalled that while former Governor Jim Nwobodo had designated Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and Ekwulọbịa as cities, the latter was apparently overlooked in the development plans.

“To become a real city, Ekwulọbịa requires serious planning,” he stated, proposing the establishment of a dedicated committee on town planning to facilitate its growth.

He said that in addition to municipal reforms, his administration is committed to social welfare, including free education, free antenatal care, and delivery services for the underprivileged.

The Mayor of Aguata local government area, Dr. Chibueze Offforbike commended the governor for transforming Ekwulobia within a short time.

"We have transformed from a rural to a semi-urban and now an urban local government area, courtesy of Governor Soludo. Thank you for making us proud. We assure you of our commitment from the wards to the polling units," he assured.

The people of the local government later presented s cheque of eighty million naira to the Governor and his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, in support of their governorship campaign.