In a recent announcement, the Enugu State Government has declared a ban on all unauthorized tolls and extortion practices targeting motorists, with a stern warning that violators will face legal consequences.
Furthermore, the government disclosed the termination of existing contracts for produce and haulage revenue collection by various government bodies, stating that such responsibilities will now be managed by service hubs established in collaboration with Heavyhaul Services Limited. These hubs aim to cater to the logistics needs of businesses and heavy-duty vehicles transporting goods in and out of Enugu State.
During a press briefing held at the Government House in Enugu, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, unveiled these directives, with key stakeholders present to show their support.
Among the stakeholders were the Commissioner of Police for Enugu State, Deputy Commissioner of Police Olasoji Akinbayo; Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NUTRW), Mr. Austine Agu; a representative from the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Mr. Obinna Agbo; as well as traditional rulers such as Igwe Patrick Eze from Amalla Egazi Autonomous Community and Igwe Emmanuel Ugwu from Ibagwa Nike. They commended Governor Peter Mbah for initiating this move and pledged their cooperation towards its success.
Prof. Onyia emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for economic growth and development, citing the importance of efficient logistics and transportation infrastructure in elevating the state’s economic status and attractiveness to investors and tourists.
Expressing disapproval of the rampant harassment and extortion faced by motorists at the hands of impostor revenue collectors, the government vowed to clamp down on such illicit activities and ensure seamless movement of people and goods within the state.
To address the challenge of multiple taxations, extortion, and other criminal acts perpetrated by non-state actors, the Enugu State Government revealed plans to establish Service Centres in partnership with Heavyhaul Services Limited at strategic locations across the state. These centres will offer various services aimed at enhancing logistics and supply chain operations.
Some of the services to be provided include livestock health and agro-produce diagnostic facilities, designated security checkpoints to prevent the importation of illicit goods, weigh stations to monitor vehicle loads, as well as amenities for drivers such as rest stops and refueling stations. The government also intends to enforce environmental standards in the transportation of industrial goods and minerals and deter the unauthorized hauling of industrial waste.
Issuing a stern warning, Prof. Onyia cautioned against erecting structures or collecting tolls outside the designated Service Centres, stating that violators would face legal repercussions.
Notably, during the event, Igwe Emmanuel Ugwu of Ibagwa Nike recounted the challenges faced by his community due to the extortion activities of impostors, likening them to potential threats like kidnappers and robbers. He expressed optimism that with the government’s intervention, traditional leaders could collaborate effectively to eradicate such menaces.