The Anambra State chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding an end to what it described as excessive levies and harassment by local councils and the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AIRS).
The association, during an emergency meeting held on Wednesday at Orpet Petrol Station in Agu-Awka, expressed deep concern over the rising financial pressure on its members. It warned that if the situation is not addressed within the set timeframe, all filling stations in Anambra State may be shut down.
Comrade Chinedu Anyaso, Chairman of IPMAN, Enugu Depot Community, said marketers had previously agreed with the state to pay a monthly levy of ₦120,000. However, recent demands have surged to between ₦500,000 and ₦700,000, creating financial strain and threatening the survival of many operators.
“This situation is making it extremely difficult for us to continue our operations,” Anyaso said. “We have suffered serious losses, and many of our members are on the brink of collapse.”
He attributed the problem to the transfer of revenue collection responsibilities from the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service to local governments, which he said has led to arbitrary fees and increased harassment of marketers.
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Despite efforts to resolve the issue through dialogue with local authorities, Anyaso noted that IPMAN members continued to face intimidation and extortion. He stressed that the association is not against changes in payment structures but insisted that any review must be done through consultation and mutual agreement.
He called on Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to intervene and stop what he described as “criminal exploitation” by revenue agents.
“Our members’ rights must be protected. We cannot continue to operate under threats and illegal levies,” he stated, also urging members to renew their operational licences and comply with safety guidelines, including the proper colour coding of product tanks. He warned that those who fail to comply would face sanctions.
Responding to IPMAN’s concerns, Dr Greg Ezeilo, Executive Chairman of the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue, appealed for calm and assured the association of Governor Soludo’s commitment to fair and transparent tax practices.
Dr Ezeilo promised to organise a tour of state projects to show how tax revenues are being used to improve infrastructure and public services across Anambra State.
