The Igbo community in Cross River State has raised concerns over what it described as illegal taxation and harassment by non-state actors, saying the activities are taking a toll on businesses across the state.

The concerns were raised on yesterday during an interactive session between the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, businessmen, women, students and the Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Calabar.

Participants also expressed concern over the poor condition of roads in parts of the state, particularly in the Northern Senatorial District, which they said was affecting commercial activities.

Second Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Agu Prince, alleged that multiple levies imposed by unidentified groups had become a major challenge for traders and business owners.

He claimed that the groups, armed with receipt booklets, harass business operators daily and alleged that their activities appeared to enjoy official protection.

Prince urged the state government to clamp down on the groups, insisting that only authorised agencies should be allowed to collect taxes. He also called for the decongestion of markets across the state, warning that overcrowding could increase the risk of fire outbreaks.

Financial Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in the state, Evan Mba, commended Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for creating what he described as a welcoming environment for the Igbo community, but appealed for improved road infrastructure to facilitate trade and economic growth.

State Secretary of the organisation, Chief Dike Ejike, also called for greater government attention to the Northern Senatorial District and sought clarification over the reported reduction in the salaries of primary school teachers.

President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River, High Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, appealed to the state government to address the concerns raised by members, while reaffirming the community’s commitment to the development of the state.

Responding, the Cross River APC Chairman, Chris Etta, assured the gathering that the issues raised would be conveyed to Governor Bassey Otu for consideration.

Etta expressed satisfaction that no security concerns were raised during the meeting and attributed the country’s current economic challenges to longstanding structural problems.

According to him, the reforms being implemented by the Federal Government are aimed at addressing those challenges and would, in time, yield positive results for Nigerians.