The Anambra State House of Assembly has taken a major step toward ending roadblock extortion and eliminating illegal revenue collection, as lawmakers passed the Anambra State Taxes, Levies and Presumptive Tax Collection Bill 2025 for second reading.
The Executive Bill, once enacted, is expected to end multiple taxation and stamp out unauthorized levies imposed by non-state actors across the state.
Presenting the bill, the Majority Leader, Ikenna Ofodeme, said it seeks to close revenue loopholes, curb illegal taxes, and clearly define which revenues accrue to each tier of government.
He added that the law will help residents know exactly what they are expected to pay while promoting seamless electronic payment systems.
According to him, the bill will drastically reduce the influence of touts who extort traders and motorists under the guise of tax collection—an action that has stifled business growth and shortchanged government revenue.
Bill strengthens transparency
Supporting the bill, Hon. JohnBosco Akaegbobi (Nnewi South II) said it promotes transparency, strengthens electronic tax collection, and ensures all internally generated revenue (IGR) goes directly into government coffers without diversion.
Also lending his support, Hon. Ejike Okechukwu (Anaocha II) expressed concern that despite Anambra’s numerous markets and vibrant commercial activities, the state’s IGR remains unimpressive—an imbalance the bill seeks to correct.
Other lawmakers, including Hon. Noble Igwe (Ogbaru I), Hon. Emma Nwafor (Orumba South), and Hon. Golden Iloh (Ihiala II), commended the bill’s strong punitive measures against offenders.
One of the standout provisions prescribes a fine of over ₦5 million and imprisonment for any individual or group that mounts roadblocks for revenue collection—an act that has long burdened traders, transporters, and residents.
If passed into law, the bill is expected to significantly strengthen Anambra’s tax administration, sanitize revenue processes, and bolster the state’s economy.
