Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has warned local authorities and market leaders against collecting levies from petty traders, particularly those with capital below ₦100,000.
Speaking during a political rally in Ekwulọbịa, Aguata Local Government Area on Saturday, Soludo said he was displeased with reports from Eke Market in Awgbu, where such illegal collections were still ongoing despite previous directives.
“Do not collect levies from them anymore. Anyone who disregards this will be arrested. We’re committed to protecting the livelihoods of our small-scale traders,” the governor declared.
The governor used the occasion to rally support for his administration and re-election bid, emphasizing grassroots involvement in governance and affirming Ekwulọbịa’s strategic importance to the state’s development.
He announced plans to establish a Town Planning Committee specifically for Ekwulọbịa to support its transformation into a fully developed urban center, aligning with its status alongside cities like Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi.
Soludo also highlighted his administration’s social initiatives, including free education, free antenatal care, and free delivery services for the underprivileged, reaffirming his grassroots-centered governance model.
“This is no longer just a political movement, it’s a people’s movement. Ekwulọbịa has shown resilience and support, and I deeply appreciate that,” he added.
Community leaders and officials in attendance praised Soludo for his developmental strides:
Chief Joseph Okafor, a community elder, applauded the governor’s achievements across the state in just three years.
Dr. Chibueze Offorbike, Chairman of Aguata LGA, noted the transformation of the area from a rural to an urban center, attributing the progress to Soludo’s leadership.
Other local leaders and speakers echoed similar sentiments, affirming continued support for the governor.
During the event, a cheque of ₦80 million was presented to Governor Soludo and his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, in support of their campaign.
He reiterated his commitment to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as the platform for driving Anambra’s development. In previous market visits across Anaocha LGA, including Oye Aguluzuigbo, Oye Ichida, Oye Obeledu and Oye Nimo, he engaged traders directly, reinforcing his belief that effective governance begins where the people are.
“The marketplace is where everyday lives unfold. It’s where real governance begins,” Soludo said.
He was accompanied by key members of his administration, including Joachin Anaeto (Principal Secretary), Ernest Ezeajughi (Chief of Staff) and Chinedu Nwoye (Chief of Protocol and Deputy Chief of Staff), alongside Anaocha LGA Chairman Romanus Ibekwe and a large turnout of party supporters.
