OGBETE TRADERS RAISE CONCERNS OVER MULTIPLE TAXATION, APPEAL TO NWAKAIBIE FOR ECONOMIC RELIEF

The leadership and members of the Ogbete Main Market Traders Association have paid a courtesy visit to Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji Nwakaibie at his campaign office in Enugu, where they voiced concerns over rising business costs, multiple taxation, and the challenges facing traders under the administration of Governor Peter Mbah.

During the visit, the traders described the economic situation as increasingly difficult, citing rising shop rates, additional levies, and alleged harassment by task force officials. They explained that these challenges were affecting their profits, weakening their businesses, and making it increasingly difficult to provide for their families.

Speaking on behalf of the association, the chairman appealed for urgent intervention, stating that many traders were struggling to sustain their businesses amid mounting financial obligations. A widow who trades in provisions also lamented that the growing cost of doing business had significantly reduced the income available to support her family and educate her children.

Responding to their concerns, Chief Nnaji thanked the delegation for visiting him and sharing their experiences. He expressed sympathy for their plight and stressed that government policies should support business growth, encourage investment, and protect the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.

He pledged that, if elected governor in 2027, his administration would review taxes and levies considered burdensome to traders and pursue policies designed to create a more business-friendly environment across Enugu State.

Nwakaibie further emphasised the importance of revitalising commercial activities in major markets, including Ogbete Main Market and Ogige Market, with the aim of improving business opportunities and strengthening the state's economy.

He also urged the traders to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and hopeful as they looked towards the 2027 governorship election.

The visit concluded with prayers for Chief Nnaji and expressions of support for his governorship ambition by members of the delegation.

The engagement has brought renewed attention to traders' concerns about taxation, market conditions, and the need for policies that enable small businesses to thrive. As political activities ahead of 2027 continue to gather momentum, the concerns of market traders are likely to remain an important part of conversations about economic development and governance in Enugu State.