…SSA Market Liaison, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah Commends Reform, Says It Ends Exploitation and Restores Order in Markets
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!There was palpable excitement across major markets in Enugu State following the decision of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah to abolish daily tolls imposed on petty traders.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, directed the immediate and indefinite suspension of revenue collection from traders operating without lockup shops. The government described the practice as illegal and exploitative, particularly targeting vulnerable traders struggling to earn a living.
Reacting to the development, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Liaison, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah, praised the governor for what he termed a courageous and people-oriented decision. He noted that the move would significantly ease the financial burden on petty traders across the state.
In a statement issued in Enugu, Dr. Mbah highlighted that the decision reflects the governor’s commitment to grassroots welfare and inclusive governance. According to him, the administration has consistently pursued policies aimed at improving the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
He further revealed that prior enforcement efforts had led to several arrests by the state’s market monitoring team in a bid to tackle illegal revenue collection by unauthorized individuals. However, he emphasized that the new directive would strengthen the fight against such practices and restore sanity within the market system.
Dr. Mbah also pointed out that non-state actors had long exploited traders through illegal levies and fake collections, stressing that the abolition would effectively put an end to such excesses while protecting traders from extortion.
Describing the governor as responsive and compassionate, he said the decision was a direct response to the concerns raised by traders, adding that it demonstrates leadership that listens and acts.
Traders across the state have since expressed deep appreciation for the intervention, pledging continued support for the administration.
It would be recalled that in November 2025, Governor Mbah constituted a revenue review committee to reform and harmonise revenue collection processes. The abolition of daily tolls is one of the key recommendations implemented from the committee’s report.
In their reactions, traders unanimously applauded the move, reaffirming their confidence in the administration and declaring that “there is no vacancy in the Lion Building,” a strong show of support ahead of the 2027 elections.