Multiple taxation of traders revealed in FCCPC’s fact finding mission in Rivers State
Gift Okeoghene
Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC has engaged on fact finding interaction with traders associations and marketers across the nation to ascertain factors responsible for the continuous hike in food prices.
The traders during the engagement, called for a check on illegal taxation by security personnel from people transporting goods from state to state which was one of the concerns raised by traders.
The Market survey conducted by FCCPC in Port-Harcourt and environs covered some markets in the area including the Oil mill and Mile 3 markets.
The commission led by the south South Zonal Director of FCCPC in Rivers State, Mr Uchegbu Chukwuma engaged with the Traders association and marketers who decried the high cost of transportation and multi taxation while transporting goods from point of purchase to point of sale contributing to high cost of goods.
Secretary of Akachukwu fruit and vegetables market in Oil mill market Elder Daniel Kanu and some dealers Mrs. Cecilia Onyenabara and Mr Adeola Amos complained about the impact of multiple taxation and high fuel cost in transportation which have increased their expenses ultimately leading to increase in prices of fruits and vegetables sold in the market
At the mile three market, portharcourt Chairman of bishop okoye shop owners in Mr. Sabinus Ikechukwu urged government to make haste in tackling agents who are sabotaging governments effort to stabilize the economy.
Some customers at the oil mill market raised concerns about the swift pace at which cost of goods are hiked and called on government at all levels to intervene.
The collective challenges and grievances of Petty traders, major dealers and marketers on the road heighten further the call for government to intervene and address the problems faced by traders to stabilize the economy.
