By our reporter
A wave of discontent swept through the streets of Aba on Thursday as traders from the renowned Ariaria International Market staged a protest against what they describe as excessive and unjust taxation imposed by the Abia State Government.
The protest drew hundreds of market traders and residents who gathered to voice their frustration with the state’s new tax regime. According to the protesters, the government recently doubled the annual shop levy from ₦18,000 to over ₦36,000. The traders argue that this increase is not only unfair but unsustainable, especially in the face of economic hardship, rising inflation, and poor market conditions.
Many traders carried placards with messages criticizing Governor Alex Otti’s administration, accusing it of abandoning the needs of the common people. Some chanted slogans mocking the government’s focus on infrastructure over welfare, sarcastically referring to the governor as “Mr. 2km Road Project” — a nickname implying limited development despite increased taxation.
The traders claim that while the administration has branded itself as a reformist “New Abia,” the reality on the ground tells a different story. Business owners lamented that rather than experiencing relief or support, they now face even greater pressure to stay afloat.
In interviews with several protesting traders, many expressed nostalgia for the previous administration led by former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu. They noted that while Ikpeazu had his shortcomings, his government did not impose such financial burdens on small businesses. Several traders described the current tax demands as exploitative and warned that many market operators may be forced to shut down if the government does not reverse its decision.
The protest has also drawn attention from political figures. Paul Ikonne, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), publicly criticized Governor Otti’s policies, describing them as reckless and damaging to Abia’s business environment. He called on the government to engage with the traders and find a more humane approach to revenue generation.
As of the time of filing this report, the Abia State Government has not issued an official response to the protest. However, sources suggest that the administration may be considering dialogue with market leaders to address the concerns.
While the protest remained peaceful, the message from the streets of Aba was clear: citizens are growing increasingly frustrated with policies they believe prioritize state revenue over people’s livelihoods. As tensions rise, the pressure is now on the Otti-led government to restore public confidence and strike a balance between economic reform and public welfare.
