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The former Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) and a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress, Prince Paul Ikonne, has raised concerns about alleged extortion targeting traders in Ariaria and other significant markets in Abia State.
Ikonne expressed his concerns in a statement released to DAILY POST on Monday by his spokesperson, Ujo Justice.
He accused the leadership of Ariaria and other major markets within the state of intimidating and harassing traders without restraint.
According to him, appointees of the Abia State government have weaponized taxation, transforming a lawful civic duty into a harsh tool of oppression.
He pointed out that traders are being compelled to pay an increased levy of N36,000, which plunges many struggling individuals into deeper financial hardship.
“This is not governance; this is tyranny,” declared Prince Ikonne.
“I am concerned that the current Abia State government has normalized the practice of sealing shops and properties, making arbitrary arrests, issuing court summons, and subjecting Abians to humiliating treatment solely for their inability to meet unreasonable and inflated levies.
“The level of harassment and intimidation by agents of this government is alarming. No democratic society should subject its citizens to such cruelty.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations has Prince Paul Ikonne made against the Abia State government?
Prince Paul Ikonne has alleged that the Abia State government is engaging in extortion and intimidation of traders by imposing inflated levies and using taxation as a tool of oppression.
What specific actions has the government taken against traders?
The government has been accused of sealing shops, making arbitrary arrests, issuing court summons, and subjecting traders to humiliating treatment for failing to meet the excessive levies.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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