ENUGU TRANSPORT UNIONS THREATEN SHUTDOWN OVER REVENUE POLICY

Commercial transport unions in Enugu State have threatened to suspend operations across the state over a new government policy on the collection of dues and levies at motor terminals.

The dispute involves the National Union of Road Transport Workers and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, which represent thousands of commercial vehicle operators across the state.

The unions rejected a directive by the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service to take over terminal commission collections and remit part of the proceeds to the unions.

Union representatives said the funds were used for members’ welfare and daily operations. They warned that drivers could withdraw their services if the government did not reverse the policy.

The state government, however, said the measures were aimed at preventing illegal multiple taxation and improving revenue collection at terminals.

Under the new directives, toll collections from tricycles and intra-city buses were stopped from October 1, while interstate vehicle charges were reviewed. The government also banned unions, associations and individuals from collecting unapproved levies at terminals.

ESIRS Chairman Emmanuel Nnamani said the government would not allow what it described as unauthorised collections from transport operators.

With the unions and government maintaining their positions, negotiations are expected to determine whether the threatened shutdown will go ahead.