Association Threatens Shutdown in Anambra State Over Heavy Taxation

The Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) in Anambra State is on the brink of shutting down services if the state government does not reconsider its heavy taxation on transporters.

The warning was issued after a joint meeting held in Awka, the state capital.

In a press briefing, RTEAN’s State Chairman and Deputy State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Ambassador Chinedu Nwabueze, highlighted the persistent issues faced by transporters in the state. Nwabueze revealed that despite multiple letters to the government, the heavy taxation and harassment of drivers by the State Board of Internal Revenue continue unabated.

Nwabueze criticized the government’s taxation policies, noting that they lack consultation with key stakeholders. He expressed concern over the illegal collection of levies and taxes on federal roads in the state, which he described as excessive and unconstitutional.

The RTEAN Chairman pointed out that while tricycle drivers bear a significant tax burden, the revenue generated does not align with poverty alleviation goals.

He emphasized the union’s resistance to wrongful collections and called for enforcement of the president’s directive to halt illegal levies and taxes on federal highways.

Nwabueze urged the state government to initiate a stakeholders’ dialogue within the next two weeks to address the grievances raised by RTEAN. Failure to resolve the issues could prompt the union to pursue appropriate measures, including service shutdowns.

Nwabueze further clarified that RTEAN’s stance is not against the state government’s policies but rather aims to challenge detrimental practices that undermine the government’s positive initiatives.

Olusola Akintonde