Updates as Enugu State Govt Seals Off Popular Market in Nsukka over Payment of Taxes

In a bid to increase internally generated revenue (IGR), the Enugu State Government has taken a decisive step by sealing a portion of the renowned Ogige Market located in Nsukka, Nsukka Local Government Area.

This action was taken early on Tuesday morning by the Enugu State Board of Internal Revenue, as part of efforts to meet the ambitious IGR target of $30 billion set by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.

The closure of certain sections of the market is a response to the non-compliance of some traders with the new tax policy introduced by the current government, which mandates all traders in the state to pay an annual market fee of N21,000. This fee represents a substantial increase from the N3,000 previously paid under the administration of the former governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, leading to reluctance among the traders to comply with the new tax regime.

According to reports from SaharaReporters, the market’s closure has caused a stir among the trading community, with many expressing their dissatisfaction over the steep increase in the fee.

However, the Chairman of the Ogige Market Amalgamated Traders Association of Nsukka (OMATAN), Ngozi Ozioko, confirmed the government’s action, stating it serves as a clear warning to the traders about the seriousness of the government’s intentions. Ozioko urged traders to comply with the new fee, highlighting the possibility of installment payments to ease the financial burden.

Despite the economic challenges faced by traders, the association’s chairman appealed to the Internal Revenue Service for a grace period to allow traders to settle their dues. Meanwhile, shops not affected by the seal remain open for business, with the stipulation that sealed shops will only be reopened upon presenting evidence of payment.

The Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Board of Internal Revenue, Mr. Emmanuel Nnamani, reaffirmed the board’s position, stating that the sealed sections of the market would remain closed until the outstanding fees were paid. He also warned against any unauthorized attempts to remove the seals, emphasizing the legal consequences of such actions.