In line with his campaign to sanitize methods of collection in the state and stop all kinds of extortion, intimidation and harassment of motorists, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has directed the immediate suspension of all kinds of transport levies payable to Abia state government which were imposed on tricycles bus and taxi operators plying the State’s roads.
In a release signed by Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, the suspension took immediate effect, and will remain until government reviewed the levies and makes public its arrangements for the smooth, organized and transparent collection of such transport levies in a manner it would not lead to extortion, intimidation and violation of rights and privileges of Abia residents.
The release read in part; “The government believes that the present method is archaic and very harmful to the lives of the people and the economic well-being of the state, and thus should not be allowed to continue.
In the light of the above decision, the governor has asked all those involved, directly and indirectly to please discontinue forthwith, or face the wrath of the law, as security agents have been briefed and directed to apprehend and bring to justice anyone found violating this directive. Meanwhile, the clearing of mountains of wastes in Umuahia have commenced in the city as directed by the new Governor.
