APC’s Ukachukwu Vows To Dismantle ‘Exploitative Tax Regime’ In Anambra

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Anambra State, Nicholas Ukachukwu, has vowed to end the alleged exploitative and brutal tax regime in the state if elected in the November 8 governorship election.

Ukachukwu made the promise on Wednesday, in Awka, when traders under the Anambra Elite Traders Forum paid him a solidarity visit. The traders, drawn from all 21 local government areas, pledged their support for his campaign.

Speaking on their behalf, Onyebuchi Onwuteeaka said traders were “tired of state-backed intimidation,” alleging that some government revenue agents brutalise, extort, and destroy traders’ goods daily.

Ukachukwu condemned the practice, describing it as inhumane and dangerous to the state’s economy.

“As governor, I will put an end to the activities of these multiple government-backed armed touts who go about inflicting pain on innocent citizens under the guise of revenue collection.

“The current system is neither fair nor humane. We will introduce a transparent, accountable, and just process that protects lives and livelihoods,” he said.

He listed groups such as the Akaodo, SASA, and ASTA as examples of notorious tax collection networks that have terrorised residents.

Ukachukwu, who said his administration would prioritise justice and human dignity, questioned the current government’s performance.

“People are being brutalised and lives are being lost in the name of revenue collection. Is this the kind of government we want to keep in power?

Is this the African Dubai-Taiwan we were promised four years ago?” he asked, drawing a chorus of “No!” from the traders.

On economic development, Ukachukwu promised to create market cooperatives to help traders access grants and financial support, while modernising the state’s agricultural system.

“We will move away from the current labour-intensive practices and adopt mechanised agriculture with high-yielding seedlings. Farming in Anambra will become easier, faster, and more rewarding,” he said.

He emphasised that women and youth empowerment would form the foundation of his administration’s economic policy. Reflecting on his upbringing, Ukachukwu shared an emotional story about his late mother, saying her words once saved him from suicide and shaped his life’s purpose.

“Everything I am today, I owe to my mother’s love and wisdom. So when I see mothers and widows working tirelessly, I see my own story.

“As your governor, I will support women through targeted economic programmes that help them thrive,” he pledged.

Ukachukwu urged voters to see their ballots as “instruments of hope and renewal.”

“As we approach November 8, I urge you to vote for a secure and prosperous future. Use your vote as a seed of faith, a seed of hope, and a seed for a better Anambra. Together, we will make history,” he said.