During the 2021 Gubernatorial campaign in Anambra State, Senator Victor Umeh justified supporting Soludo as Dr. Willie Obiano’s successor, citing the impending impact of the post-oil era on federal revenue to states. Soludo, an internationally acclaimed economist, was believed to possess the expertise to navigate this transition. Little did we know the terrible consequences it would bring.
However, many of us dismissed Umeh’s claims and warned that he was empowering a tax shark who would stifle the livelihoods of the people of Anambra and further impoverish struggling businesses.
In the two years since Professor Charles Soludo’s election as Governor of Anambra State, he has successfully destroyed 76 percent of businesses in the state through unreasonable and inhumane taxes. Despite receiving increased federal allocation and benefiting from oil derivation, Soludo has failed to create a conducive environment or attract new establishments or opportunities for the unemployed and underemployed population of the state. Instead, he has driven away both small and large-scale businesses, with neighboring Delta State reaping the benefits. Unfortunately, there is little to show for the funds Anambra State has received under his watch, as they do not reflect the well-being of the people or the development of quality infrastructure.
It is evident that Soludo’s economic sense is limited to the classroom and not applicable in practical policy implementation. His focus on high taxation has led to increased poverty and vices in Anambra State.
The imposition of taxes on little businesses, such as POS services in remote and rural areas, is burdensome and unjust, as are the excessive taxes on motorcycle riders, hawkers, petty traders, and other small businesses. These individuals have been funding the extravagant expenses of the Governor’s office, while they themselves lack access to clean water, electricity, and other basic amenities.
While other governors are encouraging small businesses given the state of the economy, Soludo’s aides take to social media to celebrate the poverty of the people of Anambra and the burdensome taxation they face.
(c) Uloka Chibuike
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