There was widespread jubilation across the markets in Enugu State following the decision of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah to abolish daily market tolls on petty traders.
The governor had, on Tuesday, 7th of April, 2026 through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Chidiebere Onyia on behalf of the Governor, announced the immediate and indefinite suspension of daily revenue collection from traders without lockup shops, describing the practice as illegal and exploitative, particularly against vulnerable members of the trading community.
Reacting to the development, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Liaison, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah, hailed Governor Mbah for what he described as a bold and compassionate decision aimed at easing the burden on petty traders.
Speaking in a statement issued in Enugu on Wednesday, Hon. Dr. Mbah noted that the governor’s action reflects his magnanimous nature and genuine concern for the welfare of the people, especially those at the grassroots struggling to make ends meet.
He explained that prior to the abolition, several arrests had been made by Peter Mbah market monitoring team in a bid to curb illegal revenue collection by non-state actors. However, he stressed that the new directive would further strengthen efforts to eliminate such unlawful practices and restore sanity in the system.
According to him, non-state actors had in the past taken advantage of the situation to exploit traders through unauthorized levies and fake collections, adding that the abolition would effectively curb such excesses and protect traders from extortion.
Hon. Mbah further stated that the move demonstrates the governor’s commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises, noting that the administration has consistently prioritized policies that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
He emphasized that Governor Mbah acted in response to the cries of traders, describing him as “a father to all” who listens and responds to the needs of his people.
The SSA conveyed the appreciation of traders across the state, noting that they are deeply grateful for the governor’s intervention and have pledged their continued support for his administration.
Recall that in November 2025, Governor Mbah set up a revenue review committee to harmonise and reform revenue collection processes. It's on the premise of the above the a recommendation was made by the committee. This abolition was a response to one of the recommendations of the committee.
Traders, who spoke in unison, expressed satisfaction with the decision, assuring the governor of their loyalty and votes ahead of the 2027 elections. They also declared that “there is no vacancy in the Lion Building,” reaffirming their confidence in his leadership.
