The attention of the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Council, Hon. Engr. Gabriel Iduseri, has been drawn to allegations circulating in some quarters that the Council is collecting illegal levies at Ugbor Market through an individual identified as Mr. Sharia.
The Council categorically and unequivocally denies these allegations and states that it has not authorised any individual, agent, or group to collect illegal fees or monies on its behalf at Ugbor Market or anywhere within the Local Government Area.
For the avoidance of doubt, Oredo Local Government Council operates strictly within the confines of the law, and all approved revenues and levies are collected through due process by recognized departments and duly licensed officials only.
Any claim linking the Council to unlawful collections through Mr. Sharia or any other individual is false, misleading, and should be disregarded by the general public.
The Council has directed the relevant authorities to investigate the source of the allegation and will take appropriate action against anyone found impersonating government officials or attempting to extort traders and residents under false pretences.
Members of the public are hereby advised to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or illegal collection activities to the appropriate security agencies or directly to the Council for prompt action.