Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has been urged to reconsider the recent hike in stallage fees for government-owned markets. The Anambra Traders’ Forum (ATF) made this appeal in a statement released in Onitsha, the state’s commercial hub, expressing concerns over the financial burden on traders.
According to the statement signed by Chief Uzoma Anunihu, Chief Media Officer, the stallage fees were increased from N12,000 to N30,000 by the Anambra State Government through the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Commerce, and Markets. The ATF argued that this significant rise is unbearable, particularly for the many women traders, some of whom are widows.
The forum requested the state government to reconsider and reduce the fees to N15,000. They highlighted the current economic hardships, citing inflation and famine as reasons why traders would struggle to meet the new fee requirements.
Furthermore, the ATF warned that the timing of this increase could have political repercussions, with both local government and gubernatorial elections approaching. They suggested that imposing such high fees might alienate traders, potentially affecting their support for the ruling party, the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA).
While acknowledging Governor Soludo’s efforts to improve state infrastructure and empower the youth and women, the ATF emphasized the need for fair taxation. They urged the government to find a balance that does not unduly strain the traders.
The appeal reflects the broader concerns of the trading community in Anambra as they navigate economic challenges and seek supportive governance.