Governor Godwin Obaseki of  Edo State has assured the people of the state of  quick economic recovery in 2017 even as he announced the prohibition of the  activities of private tax collectors in the state.
Obaseki gave the assurance in his New  Year broadcast in Benin, entitled : “Message of  Hope and Renewal.’’
The governor, while felicitating with the people, said he would never betray the confidence reposed in him in his election as governor on September 28, 2016.
Obaseki, who reviewed the socio-economic activities of  2016 and concluded that it was indeed harsh, however, exuded confidence that 2017 would be better for the people of the state.
He said Edo people remained the most fortunate in the  out-gone year  with the coronation of Oba Ewaure  and his own election as governor of the state.
The governor  noted that the two memorable events would be remembered for a long time in the annals of the state in particular and the nation in general in 2016.
Obaseki noted that “these challenges and changes in the outgoing year, therefore offer us an opportunity to create a society where we can utilise our historic, cultural and logistic advantages for economic prosperity and social stability.’’
He said  his government would speedily put in place mechanisms, policies and programmes  that would galvanise the economy of the state and make it haven for investments in 2017.
Obaseki, who also assured investors and residents of the state of their continued safety and investments, announced the immediate prohibition of private tax collectors in the state.
The governor appealed to the citizens not to heed to any form of intimidation from any quarters, and asked any harassed individuals  to “call or alert law enforcement agencies if they find anyone involved in such nefarious activities.’’
Obaseki, who urged the people to remain steadfast and be hopeful this year, encouraged them to be tolerant of one another.