Market Women Protest High Taxation, Block State Secretariat Gate

In a strong display of discontent, market women in Ebonyi State staged a protest on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Ochudo State Secretariat near the New Government House, Abakaliki. The women, predominantly yam sellers from Margaret Umahi International Market, gathered to voice their frustrations over what they described as exorbitant taxation imposed by the current administration's revenue collectors.

The protest saw the women march from their market to the state secretariat, intending to present their grievances directly to the governor. However, security personnel barred their entry, locking the gate upon their approach.

Leading the protest, Mrs. Imo Nweze highlighted the increasing burden of taxes that has impacted both the sellers and the transportation sector. She explained that the continuous tax hikes have created a harsh business environment, with revenue collectors arbitrarily raising rates. She noted that many drivers, faced with high entry fees of between N10,000 to N20,000, have refused to transport goods into the market, resulting in increased transportation costs that further cut into the women's earnings.

Mrs. Nweze detailed the women’s plight, stating that their daily tax started at N50 but has since escalated to N400 under the current administration. “We have suffered heavy losses because the market stalls are unsuitable for yam storage, causing spoilage in nearly half our stock,” she lamented. “We’re widows, mothers, and low-income earners who rely on this business to educate our children, pay rent, and afford basic needs. This tax rate is unsustainable, pushing many of us to the brink of financial collapse.”

The union of market women has reportedly spent over N2.5 million from its funds to help members pay the increased taxes. Despite these efforts, the additional tax burden has left the union's finances nearly depleted. Mrs. Nweze urged Governor Francis Nwifuru and his wife, Mrs. Mary-Mauduline Nwifuru, to intervene, expressing confidence that the governor would listen to their pleas.

Prof. Grace Umezurike, Secretary to the State Government, addressed the protesters on behalf of the governor, commending their peaceful conduct and assuring them that their concerns would be relayed to the governor for prompt action.

Nwogo Obasi, Commissioner for Markets Development and Parks, pledged to investigate the tax increases in collaboration with the state’s Board of Internal Revenue. He stressed that the governor is committed to supporting low-income earners and warned that any agents found guilty of unauthorized tax hikes would face suspension.

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