Abia Moves Against Extortion As Otti Orders Probe Into Alleged Harassment Of Traders

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has urged members of the Abia State Shippers Association to promptly report cases of harassment, illegal sealing of warehouses and extortion to relevant government agencies, as part of efforts to end criminality and strengthen law and order in the state.

Governor Otti stated this on Thursday while receiving members of the Association, led by its Board of Trustees Chairman, Chief Olo Onuma, at Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

The Governor who was reacting to complaints by the Association, reiterated his administration’s resolve to eliminate extortion and other forms of lawlessness

He noted that the State Government would not tolerate acts capable of undermining economic activities and public confidence.

Governor Otti expressed concern over the alleged extortion by hoodlums and individuals posing as security operatives, describing it as the first formal report of such incidents brought before him adding that it would be thoroughly investigated, with all those involved arrested and made to face the provisions of the law.

“There is a government here, any man who shows up in a warehouse and wants to break in or seal it illegally must be reported immediately.

“One of the major things we have achieved here is to restore law and order, whoever you are, you must respect the law. We do not tolerate extortion, self-help or lawlessness in any form.

“This matter must be thoroughly investigated, and all those involved must be arrested and made to face the provisions of the law”, he said.

Governor Otti directed his Chief of Staff to ensure that the allegations were thoroughly investigated and measures put in place to prevent a recurrence.

He maintained that the majority of Abia residents appreciates the State Government’s efforts in promoting the rule of law, respect for human rights and equal opportunities, assuring that his administration would continue to act in the best interest of the people.

On the proposed Abia Inland Dry Port project, the Governor said that the project remains a strategic initiative but must be economically viable to attract patronage.

According to him, the absence of affordable and efficient transport infrastructure, particularly rail connectivity, poses a challenge to the project’s success.

“You can build it,(Dry Port ) but if it does not make economic sense to the businessmen who will use it, nobody will patronise it.

“Until we deal with rail transport and access logistics, it will be difficult to achieve the desired results”, he said. 

Governor Otti noted that traders and importers would naturally gravitate towards routes and facilities that minimise cost and delivery time.

Earlier, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Abia State Shippers Association, Chief Olo Onuma, commended the Governor for what he described as remarkable achievements within a short period in office.

Chief Onuma, however, appealed for urgent government intervention in reviving the Abia Inland Dry Port project, stressing its potential to boost international trade and create employment opportunities.

“We urge your Excellency to bring your Midas touch to bear in this Abia State Inland Dry Port Project.

“The realisation of this dry port project will enormously enhance our international trade, increase employment within the state and of course leave further footprints of your in the sands of time here in Abia”, he said.

He decried the growing activities of hoodlums and alleged extortionists, claiming that members of the association, including artisans, fabric dealers, and shoe and bag makers, have suffered significant losses.

“Unfortunately, Your Excellency, a new gang of these extortionists have emerged and they are colluding with some government officials to cause havoc.

“They are extorting money from our members at our warehouse, offices and when we are offloading our cargoes.

“Specifically, these extortionists have engaged personnel from Standard Organisation Nigeria hiding behind the organisation to perpetrate their dubious activities.

“Furthermore, the extortionists also wait at the Army Brigade within the state, and arranges for soldiers to perpetrate the illegality”, he alleged.

Chief Onuma called on the State government to expedite action in tackling the menace, particularly in Aba, and urged greater awareness of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) to enable local manufacturers tap into export opportunities.

He explained that the trade framework allows eligible Sub-Saharan African countries to export manufactured goods, especially garments, to the United States on favourable terms.

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