The newly sworn-in chairman of Iron Rod Dealers Association at Wike, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Comrade Chidozie Anyaehie, has commended the Rivers State Government for its recent intervention in the problem of Multiple Taxation that has been holding down every business activity in the state.
Comrade Anyaehie maintained that the recent approach by the state government on tax matters has helped to salvage the situation, making it easier for them to carry out their businesses without fear or molestation from some persons that call themselves “task force”.
The union boss, who used the medium to laud the process of election that brought him to office, said that his zeal for contesting the chairmanship position was to correct certain issues, adding that he will sanitize and stabilize their business area, for all and sundry to come in and do their businesses, without fear.
He further promised to ensure that members who are deviating from the purpose, for which the organization was set-up, are brought back on board.
On challenges, the association boss noted that it will not be an easy task to lead an organization that has over 2000 members from different ethnic nationalities in the country, and stressed on the need to ensure that they key-in to the vision of the new administration in order to achieve the desires of the association, collectively.
Anyaehie, also pointed out that inadequate business environment for the 2000 members which include: shop owners, servants and other business men and women that are operating in the market, are serious challenges that the association is currently facing.
He opined that a committee created by the association called “Traffic Decongestion”, has helped in ensuring that no driver contravenes the traffic law of the state as they carry out their daily businesses. In order to maximize their space, Anayehie added that the association provided a parking space/dump where members can park their goods for onward distribution.
While believing that government will one day provide a suitable business environment for them, Comrade Anyaehie in the meantime lauded the relationship between the state government and the Pillars of Association which according to him is their umbrella body.
He applauded Governor Rotimi Amaechi for the good road networks, hospitals, schools and the opportunity for Rivers people to enjoy some of the things that they where not enjoying before, adding that more still need to be done in the state.
Anyachie however, stated that the progress that is being witnessed in their business environment will be doubled, while praying God to change the bad attitude of some members to their follow members, asking God to continue to guide them from all dangers. He described Iron as a weapon that needs to be handled with care at all times.
The association chairman, enjoined members to support the new executive of their association, the state and nation at large.
Blaise Elumezie
