Chinedum Elekwachi
Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has warned government agencies and touts against extorting money from drivers and transport operators in the state.
The governor gave the warning at the official endorsement of his re-election bid by all transport stakeholders in the State during a mega rally held at the Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium in Onitsha North Local Government Area.
He appreciated the endorsement, describing the drivers and transport unions as critical stakeholders in the state’s economic growth who must be protected.
“My deputy and I appreciate you not only for your support but also for the vital role you play in driving the economy of the state. You are the lifeline of Anambra’s economy,” he stated.
According to the governor, while drivers contribute significantly to economic development of the state, they are also among key beneficiaries of his administration’s initiatives.
His words: “We have fixed many roads, making it less necessary for constant visits to mechanics. You are partners in the progress of Anambra State’s economy.
Happy life for common man
Soludo said, “We fixed the roads to boost the economy so that the common man can live happily and survive with less stress.
“Many market women, drivers, and other stakeholders in the transport sector have acknowledged positive changes in Anambra under my leadership.”
Expressing concern over reports of continued extortion by some individuals posing as government agents, Soludo pledged to set up a task force to clamp down on those collecting illegal levies from drivers and traders.
“There are still places where touts harass transporters. We are going to establish a task force to tackle them,” he said.
Soludo warned drivers against paying any money outside the officially approved government rates, insisting that any payment made should be through government’s digital platforms.
“Don’t pay cash to anybody, please, don’t! It is not for the government. Nobody should collect cash from you. Even when arrested by Anambra Traffic Management Agency (ATMA) for a traffic offence, do not pay anyone directly.
“I’ve heard that some ATMA officials collect between ₦40,000 and ₦50,000 in cash from drivers. That must stop. Nobody will extort you.
“I’m not here for politics, but for the welfare of all. Only pay through the official government digital account. Anyone collecting cash is doing so illegally,” he said.
Protection promised
Assuring drivers of protection from illegal levies and harassment,the governor insisted that his government would not compromise on law and order.
“We must obey traffic laws. Traffic offences are serious. Please, respect traffic regulations. If you obey traffic laws, nobody will harass you.
“Anyone who flouts these laws should not only be punished but also evaluated mentally. Disobedience can lead to death, and we don’t want deaths on our roads,” he said.
Commissioner for Transport, Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike, said the rally was organized to show support for Soludo’s re-election, acknowledging his achievements in the transport sector.
“The transport sector is the biggest beneficiary of the Solution Government. The governor has constructed over 1,000 kilometers of roads, and transporters are enjoying them. They no longer visit mechanics frequently,” she said.
Coordinator, Anambra Drivers Forum and Head of the Media Sub-Committee of the event, Comrade Osita Obi, praised Soludo’s sweeping reforms that have restored order, dignity, and accountability in the state’s transport sector.
He described the governor as a “courageous, visionary, and people-centered reformer” whose leadership had transformed the transport system in Anambra.
All united for one project
“We drivers are united behind one project, Governor Soludo’s re-election. Thousands of drivers and transport stakeholders here today testify that under Soludo’s leadership, the era of touts, multiple taxation, and illegal levies has been decisively curtailed,”
“For many years, our parks and motor routes were battlegrounds of extortion, harassment, and lawlessness. Drivers toiled day and night while touts and illegal task collectors feasted on their sweat.
“Then came Soludo a man of courage, vision, and compassion. He heard our cry and responded with firmness and fairness,” he added, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.
