The National President of the Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria, Engr. Osigbemeh Emmanuel, has officially affirmed Ambassador Samuel Eniola as the duly appointed South-West Coordinator of the union, in accordance with Article 5 of the group’s constitution.
The declaration was made during a media briefing on Friday, addressing an ongoing dispute regarding the legitimacy of union members and executives in the South-West region.
Mr. Ayobami Makinde and some others have submitted a petition alleging misconduct and claiming that Eniola is not the legitimate coordinator of the union in the area.
However, the National President dismissed these allegations, reiterating that Eniola is indeed the authentic leader, recognized with all necessary documentation and identification from the national body.
“Ambassador Samuel Eniola is the legitimate South-West Coordinator of our union, as acknowledged by the national body. Anyone else claiming this title is an impostor,” he stated.
He outlined the association’s mandate, which includes combating the diversion and theft of goods, as well as addressing the issue of abandoned vehicles on highways. Other priorities include educating drivers about professionalism and reducing road carnage, economic sabotage, and preventable loss of life.
In response to the petition against Eniola, the National President maintained that Makinde’s claims are unfounded, as no substantial evidence or official appointment letter has been presented, nor has an ID card for the position been issued to him. He urged the public to remain vigilant against impostors and promised that the union would take action to expose them.
Furthermore, the National President emphasized that none of the three individuals stirring controversy have expressed a genuine interest in joining the union or have obtained the necessary documentation to be recognized as substantial members.
In a separate development aimed at supporting the Federal Government’s policies on ease of doing business and combating economic sabotage, the Nigeria Police Force has arrested several suspects involved in unauthorized revenue collection and multiple taxation along the Enugu, Abakaliki, and Ebonyi axis.
These arrests represent a significant step towards eradicating illegal activities, fostering economic growth, and ensuring the smooth flow of industrial and agricultural products on highways nationwide.
On August 24, 2024, police operatives achieved a breakthrough with the arrest of 14 suspects at the Abakaliki and Ebonyi boundary at 3 AM. Additional arrests included five suspects at Abumeje, Ogoja, and one more at the Onuakpu area of Ebonyi. The five suspects have been charged with economic sabotage and illegal taxation, while others in custody at the Ebonyi Command are expected to appear in court soon.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD., NPM., reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to dismantling all illegal revenue collection points and taxation schemes, ensuring a safer environment for citizens, especially businesspeople in Nigeria.
This operation marks a significant initiative for the police to enforce the Presidential order on ease of doing business and combat illegal roadblocks and revenue collection schemes, thereby promoting economic development in Nigeria.
This information was disclosed in a statement released by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, in Abuja.
