Some Point of Sale (POS) operators in Sapele, Delta State, have voiced frustration over what they describe as mounting financial pressure following the introduction of new levies and identification requirements by local council authorities.
Operators who spoke to journalists said they are now required to pay for uniforms costing ₦5,000, stickers priced at ₦1,500, and a weekly ticket fee of ₦400. They lamented that these new charges have further strained their already difficult business conditions amid the ongoing economic challenges.
One operator, a Delta State University graduate, said she ventured into the POS business after struggling to secure a job but now finds it increasingly hard to keep the business afloat.
“I took a ₦100,000 loan to start this business, but with all these new levies, it’s getting harder to make any profit,” she said with tears in her eyes. “Some days, we barely get customers, yet we’re still expected to pay for tickets and other charges.”
Another operator compared the situation to being forced to comply or risk losing their livelihood, alleging that enforcement officers often stop those without the approved uniform or stickers from operating in the market.
“Without the uniform, sticker, and ticket, you can’t work,” the operator explained. “I started this business with ₦200,000, but now my capital has dropped to about ₦140,000 because of all these deductions.”
Some traders told journalists they initially dismissed the reports about the new policy until local officials arrived to enforce it. They said they had hoped the authorities would reconsider the decision, appealing for understanding in light of the harsh economic realities faced by small business owners.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Sapele Local Government Council Chairman for comments were unsuccessful, as his mobile line could not be reached.
Meanwhile, several residents have called on the council to engage POS operators in dialogue to address their concerns and strike a balance between regulation and business survival.
