Former chairman of the Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDHTAN), Kogi State Chapter, Aminu Salami, has called on security operatives in the state to go after those using his name to collect illegal taxes on the roads.
Speaking to newsmen on Friday, Aminu stated that he has never authorised anyone to erect illegal structures on the roads and expressed confusion as to why such individuals are using his name to carry out their unlawful activities.
He clarified that he has already completed his tenure as the chairman of the association and should not be linked to the actions of the illegal tax collectors.
“It is with great pleasure that I announce Mr Chukwuma Trust Okechukwu as the new and authentic State Chairman of HDHTAN, Kogi State Chapter. I am confident that he will lead the association to greater heights and ensure the welfare of all members,” Aminu said.
He emphasised that there is only one legitimate Heavy Duty and Haulage Transport Association of Nigeria (HDHTAN), urging that any other association or group claiming to represent heavy-duty truck drivers is fake and should cease operations immediately.
Aminu further authorised the police and other law enforcement agencies to prosecute anyone using his name to extort money or commit illegal activities on the roads.
“My objective is to stop all illegal taxation operations on federal roads, prevent my former employees from causing problems in the state, and inform the general public that I am no longer the Chairman of HDHTAN, Kogi State Chapter,” he added.
He also appealed to the Chairman of the Kogi State Inland Revenue Service (KGIRS) to support the new chairman, Mr Chukwuma Trust Okechukwu, in combating economic sabotage in the state.
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