The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has condemned the rising cases of public harassment, illegal levies, and exploitative utility billing in the state and called on government at all levels to act swiftly.
In a communique endorsed by the state chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor and secretary, Comrade Chinaza John, shortly after an emergency congress of the union held at the Dr. Sam Egwu Press Centre, Abakaliki, the union urged the State Assembly to expedite the passage of the Executive Bill on Rent Control before it.
The congress also condemned the aggressive tactics employed by the state’s traffic enforcement taskforce, adding that the taskforce’s activities have resulted in road accidents and loss of lives in the state.
The union urged the state government to either retrain or disband the unit to prevent further tragedies.
Congress expressed deep concern over the conduct of revenue agents and taskforce members accused of harassing residents and business owners under unclear mandates.
The NUJ called on the state government to harmonise revenue operations and weed out impostors who are tarnishing the administration’s image.
On the public outcry over electricity bills in the state, the NUJ condemned what it described as “outrageous” electricity bills imposed on Ebonyi residents by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), particularly those using postpaid meters.
The union urged the state government to establish its own Electricity Regulatory Commission to monitor EEDC’s activities and protect citizens from exploitation.
While criticising certain actions, the congress commended the state government for notable efforts, including the ongoing repair of damaged water pipes, traffic decongestion via the reopening of Udensi Roundabout, and the recent executive bill to regulate house rent.
The union also urged the state government to ensure the total closure of the ongoing Vanco Junction flyover and Tunnel to prevent accidents as heavy-duty trucks continue to work in the area.
The congress commended Mr. Nkemkanma Kama, member representing OHANIVO federal constituency, for fulfilling his promise of installing a borehole at the NUJ Press Centre and described the gesture as timely and thoughtful.
Also, the union congratulated Governor Nwifuru and lawmakers from Ebonyi State on their two years in office and urged deeper legislative engagement to tackle rising poverty.
It called for inclusive skill acquisition and empowerment programmes insulated from hijack by racketeers.
The congress charged all levels of government to act urgently on pressing social and economic issues threatening the well-being of residents.
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