Ohanaeze Ndigbo Appeals to Cross River Government Over Alleged Illegal Taxation, Infrastructure Challenges

Igbo Community Raises Concerns Over Business Environment

THE Cross River State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called on the state government to dismantle what it described as a network of illegal taxation and harassment allegedly perpetrated by non-state actors, warning that the situation is undermining commercial activities and discouraging investment across the state.

The appeal was made during an interactive session between leaders of the Igbo community and officials of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Calabar. The meeting brought together community leaders, traders, business owners, professionals and students to discuss issues affecting the welfare of residents and the business climate in the state.

The discussions focused on taxation, infrastructure, market safety, governance and economic reforms.

Community Alleges Multiple Illegal Levies

Speaking on behalf of the community, the Second Vice-President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Agu Prince, alleged that traders and business operators continue to face harassment from groups imposing multiple unauthorised levies.

According to him, individuals carrying receipt booklets routinely demand payments from traders, creating additional financial burdens for businesses already grappling with difficult economic conditions.

Prince alleged that the manner in which the groups operate has raised suspicions among affected traders regarding possible official backing, although no evidence was presented publicly during the meeting to substantiate the claim.

He urged the state government to investigate the allegations, dismantle any illegal taxation networks and protect legitimate businesses from extortion.

Call for Market Reforms and Infrastructure Development

Beyond the issue of taxation, the Ohanaeze leadership also appealed for improved market management across the state.

Chief Prince warned that congestion in many commercial centres poses significant safety risks, particularly during emergencies such as fire outbreaks, and called for measures to improve market planning and public safety.

Similarly, the Financial Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River, Mr. Evan Mba, commended Governor Bassey Otu’s “Season of Sweetness” development agenda but appealed for greater investment in road infrastructure, particularly in the Northern Senatorial District.

According to him, improved transportation networks would facilitate commerce, reduce business costs and stimulate broader economic growth.

Governance Issues Also Raised

The State Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Dike Ejike, expressed concern over governance challenges affecting communities in northern Cross River.

He also sought clarification regarding reports of reductions in the salaries of primary school teachers, urging government authorities to address concerns affecting workers and public service delivery.

President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River, Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, appealed to the state government to carefully consider all issues raised during the engagement.

He reaffirmed the Igbo community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and its continued contribution to the economic and social development of Cross River State.

APC Promises to Relay Concerns to Government

Responding on behalf of the ruling party, Cross River APC Chairman Mr. Chris Etta assured participants that the issues raised would be communicated to Governor Bassey Otu for appropriate consideration.

Etta expressed appreciation that security was not identified as a major concern during the meeting, attributing the situation to improvements recorded by the state government in addressing security challenges.

On the broader economy, he acknowledged prevailing hardship across the country but argued that current reforms are intended to resolve long-standing structural problems inherited over many years.

He expressed optimism that ongoing economic reforms would eventually produce positive outcomes for citizens and businesses.