From Isaac Ojo
The Anambra State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo has suspended tax payments for heavy duty loading and offloading in the transport sector.
Gov Soludo made the announcement when he met with transport operators and other key stakeholders at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Center in Awka.
The governor also approved a slash in the rates and weekly payments applicable to tricycle (keke), shuttle buses and other transport operators.
In the new tax regime, keke operators will now pay N2,500 per week or N10,000 per month, shuttle bus drivers will pay N3000 per week or N12,000 per month and Mini Truck drivers to pay N3,750 per week or N15,000 per month.
Motorcycle riders (Okada) are to start paying N1000 per week or N4000 per month, while taxi drivers will now pay N3,000 per week or N12,000 per month.
Gov Soludo stated that the meeting was convened to inform them that he had heard their complaints about the method of tax collection.
The Anambra State number one man noted that he understood the concerns raised regarding rate reduction, mode of payment (daily or weekly), and the issue of multiple taxes.
He assured them that his government is determined to institute a progressive tax system because APGA is a party for the common man.
“This Government will protect and promote the common man’s interests.” To make the system more equitable, we are working on comprehensive tax reform. Tax collection from hawkers, wheelbarrow pushers, and vulcanizers is prohibited in Anambra State.
“As a progressive government, we are determined to ensure that the poor are not burdened by taxes and that the wealthy pay their fair share. The truth is that you are paying more than your fair share,” Governor Soludo emphasized. I understand what you’re going through; I feel and touch it, and that’s why we’re going all out to declare a total emergency on state roads to alleviate your suffering.” He asserted.
Meanwhile, a number of stakesholders in transportation sector who commented on the development applauded Gov Soludo for being sensitive to the plight of the common man.
They also expressed readiness to pay the new tax regime announced during their meeting with the governor and his team.
Convener, Recover Nigeria Project (RNP) Comrade Osita Obi however appealed to the governor to ensure that touts are totally removed from enforcement of payment of taxes and levies.
