Anambra Governor Obiano
By Sunny A. David
Traders in Onitsha Main Market have pledged support to the Anambra State government in the development of the State through regular and timely payment of revenues.
Some of the traders who spoke at a meeting between Market leaders and Special Taskforce on Recovery of Government Revenues, said the market has a structured and formalised system of generating revenues for the government, calling for its sustenance.
The meeting, aimed at creating mutual understanding between the traders and the Special Taskforce on Recovery of Government Revenues attracted the presence of leaders at various kennels in the market.
The traders, including Chief Innocent Ezeoha, Mr. Celestine Akidi and Mr. Okechukwu Odoh, who noted that the Nigerian economic situation is negatively affecting members, called on government to develop traders-friendly approach in collecting revenues.
They equally advised government to look inwards to ensure that those responsible for revenue collection are not sabotaging government efforts.
Addressing the traders, the State Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, who is also Chairman of the Special Taskforce on Recovery of Government Revenues, Mr. Uchenna Okafor, enjoined the traders to see themselves as partners in the development of the State, urging them pay revenues on time and at all times, to enable government sustain the tempo of development in the state.
He equally advised the market leaders to ensure transparency in generating funds for government, advising them to report erring members to appropriate authorities.
On his part, the Chairman of Anambra State Physical Planning Board, Barrister Chike Mmadekwe, who regretted that revenues accruing to the government from markets across the State have not been encouraging, said the meeting with the market leaders will bring about mutual benefits for government and the traders.
Other members of the Taskforce, including the Chairman of the State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. David, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Creative Security, Rtd. Air Vice Marshal Ben Chiobi, reminded the traders of laws and sanctions applicable to task defaulters.
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