By Vincent Ujumadu
Awka – Professor Chukwuma Soludo, Governor of Anambra State, has issued a stern directive to government officials, instructing them to cease the collection of levies from petty traders. He emphasized that his administration will not tolerate any actions that negatively impact the economic well-being of low-income earners.
The governor made this declaration during a political gathering in Ekwulọbịa, located in Aguata Local Government Area, where he highlighted the critical role of community participation in effective governance.
This announcement came shortly after his inspection of Eke Market in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area, where it was revealed that levies were still being imposed on petty traders with capital below ₦100,000, despite clear government orders to the contrary.
“Stop collecting these levies immediately. Anyone found violating this directive will face arrest,” Soludo warned, reaffirming his dedication to safeguarding the livelihoods of small-scale traders.
Expressing gratitude for the community’s ongoing support, the governor acknowledged Ekwulọbịa’s strategic importance in the broader development agenda of Anambra State.
He recalled that former Governor Jim Nwobodo had previously recognized Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and Ekwulọbịa as key urban centers. However, Ekwulọbịa had been neglected in subsequent development initiatives. To address this, Soludo proposed establishing a specialized town planning committee tasked with accelerating the area’s evolution into a fully-fledged city.
Further, the governor reiterated his administration’s focus on social welfare programs, highlighting initiatives such as free education and complimentary antenatal and delivery healthcare services aimed at supporting vulnerable populations.
Dr. Chibueze Offforbike, Mayor of Aguata LGA, commended Governor Soludo for the rapid transformation of Ekwulọbịa, noting the shift from a rural to a semi-urban and now urban status under his leadership.
“Thanks to Governor Soludo, our local government area has undergone significant urbanization. We are proud of these achievements and pledge our full support from the grassroots to the polling units,” he stated.
In a demonstration of solidarity, residents of Aguata presented Governor Soludo and his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, with a ₦80 million cheque to bolster their campaign for re-election.