By Ijeoma Agbafo
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River has called on the state government to address alleged illegal taxation and harassment of traders by non-state actors, saying the practice is negatively affecting businesses across the state.
The appeal was made on Thursday during an interactive session between the leadership of the Igbo community and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Calabar. Speaking on behalf of the community, the Second Vice-President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Agu Prince, alleged that traders were being extorted through multiple illegal levies by groups operating with receipt booklets.
Prince urged the state government to dismantle the alleged illegal taxation network and decongest markets across the state, warning that overcrowding could pose serious risks, particularly during fire outbreaks. He also alleged that the groups enjoyed the backing of some government officials.
The Financial Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River, Mr Evan Mba, commended Gov. Bassey Otu’s “Season of Sweetness” agenda but appealed for improved road infrastructure, particularly in the Northern Senatorial District, to boost trade and economic growth. The state secretary of the group, Chief Dike Ejike, also raised concerns over alleged poor governance in the northern part of the state and the reported reduction in salaries of primary school teachers.
Responding, the APC Chairman in Cross River, Mr Chris Etta, assured the community that the concerns raised would be conveyed to Gov. Otu. Etta also said the government had made significant progress in addressing insecurity, while acknowledging the economic hardship facing Nigerians and expressing optimism that ongoing reforms would yield positive results with time.
