The governor of Anambra, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has made a move to ensure zero touting in the state by launching the Anambra State Anti-Touting Squad on Monday.
Soludo, during the inauguration at Upper Iweka, said that his administration is determined to restore law and order in Anambra State, especially the capital, Onitsha, and its environs.
The governor said he believes that ensuring zero touting in Anambra would make movements and commercial activities in the state a pleasurable experience.
He congratulated members of the squad who have been found worthy and offered to serve, urging them to serve with commitment, passion, and diligence.
Soludo also advised them to adhere to laid-down standards and the code of conduct guiding their operations.
“Members of the anti-touting squad shall collaborate with the Nigerian Armed Forces, who have the primary responsibility to keep the state safe,” he said.
“The launch of the squad is an acceleration on the key promise we made to the people living in the greater Onitsha area, which consists of Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ogbaru, Oyi, and Idemili, to restore Anambra State, known for law and order, back to its full glory as the ‘Light of the Nation’.
“When we assumed office, eight local government areas were taken over. Thanks to the combined efforts of our security agencies and the vigilante service with their support, those local government areas have been liberated and normalcy restored.”
He further called on market leaders to take charge of the markets and ensure people shop without harassment, & solicited partnerships with security operatives.
Soludo once again warned that petty traders, barrow pushers, and hawkers should not be taxed at any market.
He warned those sponsoring touts to retrace their steps or be ready to face the consequences, and youth involved in touting should key into government empowerment programmes to become useful to society & themselves.
