Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has pledged to tackle road extortion and other illegal levies allegedly imposed on motorists and transport operators by touts, popularly known as “agbero,” across the state.
Hamzat said the state government was committed to creating a more organised transportation system and ensuring that residents and businesses are not subjected to multiple or unlawful tax payments.
He explained that efforts were underway to streamline the state’s tax collection system and eliminate unnecessary duplication of levies, stressing that government revenue collection must be transparent, accountable and properly regulated.
According to him, the administration would continue to work with relevant stakeholders in the transport sector to address challenges associated with illegal collections and harassment on roads.
The Deputy Governor also emphasised the need for transport operators and other stakeholders to comply with approved government regulations, while assuring residents that the government would take appropriate steps against activities that undermine the state’s transportation and revenue systems.
Hamzat maintained that the reforms were aimed at improving the ease of doing business, protecting residents from exploitation and ensuring that government revenues are collected through legitimate and accountable channels.
He called for cooperation from transport unions, motorists, businesses and residents as the state intensifies efforts to reform its transportation and tax administration systems.
Remove repeated reform statements
Make the headline more concise
Use a stronger news lead