The Chairman of Oredo Local Government Council, Honourable Gabriel Iduseri, has dismissed allegations circulating on social media that the council is collecting illegal levies at Ugbor Market through an individual identified as Sharia.
The council stated categorically that it has not authorised any individual, agent or group to collect illegal fees or monies on its behalf at Ugbor Market or anywhere within the local government area.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary of the council, Igumah Quist, the council clarified that Oredo Local Government operates strictly within the confines of the law. According to the statement, all approved revenues and levies are collected through due process by recognised departments and duly licensed officials only.
The council described claims linking it to unlawful collections through Sharia or any other individual as false and misleading, urging members of the public to disregard such allegations.
The statement further disclosed that the council has directed relevant authorities to investigate the source of the allegation and take appropriate action against anyone found impersonating government officials or attempting to extort traders and residents under false pretences.
Residents and traders were advised to promptly report any suspicious or illegal collection activities to appropriate security agencies or directly to the council for immediate action.
