The Anambra State chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government, protesting what it describes as excessive and arbitrary levies imposed by local councils and the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AIRS).
The association’s grievances were made clear during an emergency meeting held on Wednesday at Orpet Petrol Station, Agu-Awka. IPMAN expressed strong dissatisfaction over increasing financial demands, harassment, and alleged intimidation of its members, warning that petrol stations across the state may be shut down if the issues are not promptly addressed.
Comrade Chinedu Anyaso, Chairman of the Enugu Depot Community of IPMAN, revealed that while members previously paid a fixed monthly levy of ₦120,000, recent demands have skyrocketed to between ₦500,000 and ₦700,000.
“This situation is making it increasingly difficult for us to operate smoothly in the state. We have lost a significant amount of money due to these uncontrolled taxes, and many petroleum marketers are on the verge of collapse,” Anyaso said.
He also criticised the transfer of revenue collection duties from the state’s internal revenue body to local government authorities, stating that this change has led to a rise in unregulated and arbitrary charges.
Efforts to engage local authorities have so far proven unproductive, he added, noting that members continue to face extortion and abuse. Anyaso made it clear that IPMAN is not opposed to restructuring payment models, provided the changes are discussed transparently and agreed upon mutually.
He appealed to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to step in and end what he termed the “criminal exploitation” of petroleum marketers in the state. “We refuse to be victimised. Our rights must be upheld,” Anyaso declared.
The association also reminded its members to renew their operational licences and strictly adhere to safety measures, including the mandatory implementation of approved product tank colour codes. Non-compliance, it warned, would attract sanctions.
In response to the protest, Dr Greg Ezeilo, Executive Chairman of the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue, urged the marketers to remain patient. He reassured them of Governor Soludo’s dedication to the judicious use of tax revenue and proposed a tour of state projects to demonstrate the administration’s developmental efforts.