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From George Onyejiuwa, Owerri
Following the incessant reports of harassments and intimidation of revenue collection taskforce , the Governor Hope Uzodimma has banned all persons or groups involved in the reckless collection of levies in Imo State without the strict authorisation of the governor.
In a press release signed by the Chief Press Secretary ,Mr Oguwuike Nwachukwu, on Friday Governor Hope Uzodimma said the consequences that await the refusal of those involved in such acts are huge because his government is no longer prepared to tolerate acts that smear her image.
Governor Uzodimma said that he is particularly concerned about reports of individuals, groups and even political appointees, who harass members of the public under the guise of taskforces and use same to collect levies and impose penalties that are both illegal and criminal.
The Governor insists that the only authorised body in Imo State charged with the responsibility of collecting levies, penalties and other revenues for the government remains the Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS).
The Imo state governor therefore warned that anyone caught in the web of further illegal collections, including political appointees, will face the music squarely, regardless of who the person is.
Uzodimma said that , “The areas where the madness over collection of levies, penalties and other fees has taken a worrisome dimension and brought to his attention are in the haulage/ truck collections (both day and night) businesses, the municipal daily ticketing in the parks and markets, those going after transportation traffic offenders, among others.
While the ministries and agencies involved in the act have been directed to desist from further collection of such levies, penalties and fees, (political appointees inclusive) or group that decides to taste my will on such illegalities by way of ignoring this directive may have to face consequences.” He warned .
