Landlords in the Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State are expressing dissatisfaction with what they perceive as “multiple levies” imposed on them by illegal revenue collectors. The Fegge Landlords Association, representing the affected property owners, recently voiced their grievances during an interactive forum with Anambra State’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim.
Chief Ignatius Agabarugo, the spokesperson for the Fegge Landlords Association, raised concerns about the daily incursion of touts and revenue collectors into their community, claiming to be acting on behalf of the state government. These individuals demand payments for various levies, including those related to sanitation, property, and development, causing distress among the landlords.
Agabarugo lamented the unjust situation and emphasized the adverse effects it has on both landlords and the community at large. He stated, “We are ready to cooperate with the state government in the area of ending these extortions that have become a menace on us.”
In response to the concerns raised, Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim assured the landlords of the government’s commitment to addressing the issue. He pledged to thoroughly investigate the matter and take appropriate action to curb the activities of illegal revenue collectors.
Dr. Ibezim underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and the community to find a lasting solution to the problem. He stated, “The essence of this meeting is for us to interface with you all, the landlords, on the need to clear the blocked drainages, clear the refuse dumps, plant trees, and paint your buildings to give this place a face lift.”