Abia checks touting, bans revenue collection along major roads

Abiodun OBA

Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia has taken a step further in checking touting in the state.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Onyebuchi Ememanka, in Aba on Saturday, Ikpeazu has banned banned the collection of revenue along major roadsin the state.

The governor noted that the activities of touts had increased in parts of the state due to the culture of revenue collection along major roads. Revenue collection along major roadsaccording to the governor, had been hijacked by touts, who had become nuisance to residents.

Ikpeazu further directed the Chairman of Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area, Mr Christian Kamalu, to immediately rid the Osisioma Flyover of touts to restore decency.

“Henceforth, it has become illegal for any revenue agent to waylay or harass motorists or other road users along major roads in the state.

“The police and other law enforcement agencies have been told to enforce this directive, anybody found culpable will face the law,” he said.

Despite a law passed by the Abia House of Assembly, and the state government banning touting in 2016, activities of touts had remained visible in the state.