The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, says he has received reports about illegal collection of fees from motorists by certain impersonators in Ohafia Local Government Area and across the state, purportedly on behalf of the Abia State government.
Emetu also said that he is aware of the recent incident involving two individuals who were assaulted by youths from Ebem Ohafia in response to these unlawful activities.
The Deputy Governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Chukwudi Eke Mba, on Monday, strongly condemned the illegal practice and urged those involved to desist immediately.
He stated that the Abia State government does not authorize any individual or group to collect fees or levies on its behalf without proper documentation and official endorsement from the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue.
He noted that the actions of the unauthorized collectors not only violated the law but also undermined the trust and cooperation between the Abia State government and the citizens.
“The Abia State Taskforce Team Ohafia Ohafia Zone should step up their efforts in combating illegal revenue collection, reassert its presence in the field, and reaffirm its commitment to transparency, accountability, and community service.”
He urged all residents of Ohafia LGA and the entire state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to fee collection to the appropriate authorities, as according to him, extortion or collection will not be allowed.
The Abia Deputy Governor’s warning may not be unconnected with recent reports of intimidation of some residents of Ohafia by fake revenue agents.
