…Every Kobe paid to government coffers must be made accountable because you people employed me
Governor of Anambra State Professor Chukwuma Soludo has assured commercial drivers in the state that the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) is a party for the common man and his administration will protect and promote the intreast of the people.
Governor Soludo while speaking with the operational transporters in a town hall meeting today at the Dora Akunyeli Women Development Center Awka, promised to end multiple taxation in the transport sector.
The Governor after listening to their complains, commendations and suggestions stated that the method of payment has being a setback
“Government needs revenue. There’s no society that is developed without people paying taxes. We are determined to have a task system that is progressive and simplied. We must avoid multiple taxation. We will introduce technology so as to end tout. We are working on a comprehensive tax reform.
“Anambra state has road crises. That’s why we decided to declare a state of emergency on roads. We have awarded contracts and work is on-going with about 260 kilometers of road Currently under construction in the state.
“With quality roads, you will save more and not always be at the mechanic. I know what you are going through. I feel and touch it and that is why we are determined to end this pain and suffering by declearing state of emergency on roads.
“As a progressive government, we are determined to make sure that the poor is not burdened. The rich must get there own fair-share. We have meet with you before but part of the things we discussed has not worked the way it should.
“I have to commend you all because transporters are amongst the few persons who pay their tax but unfortunately, ninty percent of the taxes you pay goes to private pockets. You are paying more than your fair-share” Soludo lamented
“Every Kobe paid to government coffers must be accountable for because you people employed me. Let’s go back to the drawing board. We need a system that will ensure that nobody is tasked twice.
He assured the transporters that specific locations such as Oye-Agu Abagana, Nkpor, Obosi and other sreas that are still having touts will be concentrated more because he gets complains everyday about those areas.
“About eighty (80) touts where arrested at Upper Iweka before Christmas. we will continue to hunt them until we clear the street, Soludo vowed.
Soludo concluded by reducing the tax of the transporters urging them to help in keeping Anambra clean through providing waste bins in their vehicles for passengers to dispose wastes.
While keke operators now pay 10,000 naira, reviewed from 15,000 naira which can be broken into four, entailing 2,500 naira per week, Taxi operators will now pay 12, 000 naira instead of 17, 500 naira amounting to 3000 naira weekly, while shuttle buses will now pay 3000 weekly.
Mini truck operators are to pay 3,750 naira weekly, while motorcycle operators will now pay 4000 naira, amounting to 1000 naira weekly.
Also suspended was payment of tolls, taxes and levies by heavy duty vehicle operators across the state.
