By Karen James
Investigative Report: Calls for Governor Soludo’s Intervention Grow Louder Amidst Tension in Anambra Markets
The Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) is facing a growing crisis, with traders and executive members accusing the President-General (PG), Chief Humphrey Anuna, of withholding the association’s 3% Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Since Anuna took office, the revenue—which traditionally belongs to ASMATA’s board and executive—has not been distributed, causing widespread dissatisfaction.
According to multiple sources, when ASMATA executives confronted Anuna about the funds, he claimed that the governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, had compensated him with the ASMATA office due to his financial support during the governorship election, citing a ₦200,000,000 contribution he made on election day. This explanation has only further enraged the executive members and traders, who view the situation as a misuse of public funds for personal benefit.
The refusal of the PG to release the funds or relinquish his position has sparked chaos across major markets, with reports of public harassment and intimidation among traders. Some claim that those who raise concerns about the withheld revenue face suspension from market activities without the governor’s approval, adding to the tension.
Traders have called on Governor Soludo to intervene, demanding that Anuna be removed or that the issue be resolved before the situation worsens. Many warn that the unrest could escalate into violence, potentially leading to loss of life. “We have never seen this kind of situation in our markets before. The structure that has kept ASMATA peaceful is being destroyed,” said one trader, who preferred to remain anonymous.
Additionally, traders have expressed fears that the ongoing conflict within ASMATA could have broader political ramifications, particularly for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which has strong ties to the market structure. They urge the governor to act swiftly and impartially, warning that allowing the crisis to continue could damage APGA’s influence in the region.
With traders threatening to take further action if their demands are not met, all eyes are on Governor Soludo and the Anambra State House of Assembly to intervene and prevent the collapse of ASMATA.
Pechilly Investigative Reporters will continue to follow the situation closely until a resolution is reached.
