Encourage citizens to pay their taxes, hold government accountable for the utilization of the money
The Social and Integral Development Center (SIDEC) orchestrated a comprehensive Sensitisation Programme Friday, focusing on Tax Compliance, Effectiveness, and Efficiency of Tax Collection Methods and Processes in Anambra State.
The event held in Awka, Anambra State attracted diverse stakeholders, including Market Women, Market Leaders, ASATU Men and Women, Tax-Monitors, UHBET representatives, and members of the Tax Justice and Governance Platform.
Speaking during presentation on Tax Policies and Laws in Nigeria, Executive Director of SIDEC, Ugochi Agalaba-Ehiahuruike highlighted the challenges hindering the implementation of the National Tax Policy (NTP) 2012.
She emphasized the need for clarity in the taxation powers of each level of government to address uncertainties and non-compliance.
“Sometimes, people complain about multiple taxes, not knowing that there are taxes and levies to be collected by the Federal, state and local governments.
“At the state level, you pay Pay as You Earn, PAYE, direct taxation (self assessment), withholding tax (individuals only), capital gains tax (individuals only), stamp duties on instruments executed by individuals, pool betting and lotteries, gaming and casino taxes, road taxes, business premises registration fees.
“But, at the local government level, you pay shops and kiosks rates, tenement rates, on and off liquor license fees, slaughter slabs fees, marriage, birth and death registration fees, naming of street registration fee, among others,” she said.
Encouraging tax enforcers, Ehiahuruike urged them to acquire a robust understanding of tax laws to prevent issues of multiple taxation and ensure proper demarcation of tax responsibilities between federal, state, and local governments.
“There is also insufficient information available to taxpayers on tax compliance requirements thus creating uncertainty and non compliance. But, in all this, citizens should know that they have the right to demand service for the taxes they are paying”
“So, as you go back, encourage our people to pay their taxes. It is only then that we can then return to hold government accountable for the utilization of the money,” she concluded.
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue (Technical), Mrs. Amara Oyeka delivered a presentation on the Benefits of Tax Compliance, during which she emphasized that tax compliance in Anambra State plays a pivotal role in funding essential public services, infrastructure development, social programmes and contributing to the overall well-being of the citizens.
Oyeka who reiterated the penalties for tax evasion, underscored that tax compliance attracts investors, promotes economic stability, and fosters a fair distribution of the tax burden, encouraging civic responsibility among citizens.
Representing the Central Senatorial Zone Leader, Unified Hybrid Enforcement Team (UHBET), Hon. Evaristus Obyno Offoh, the Head Monitoring Unit of the zone, Hon. Buchi Okoli, praised UHBET as a positive tax development strategy for Anambra State.
He highlighted UHBET’s approach which replaced the intimidating roles of tax masters with humility, civility, empathy, and love. Mr. Okoli shared that UHBET’s strategy has significantly increased the state’s revenue, fostering transparent remittance and enhancing development under the Soludo Administration.
The Public Relations Officer of UHBET, Juventus Chukwuneke, urged Ndi Anambra to report any humiliations or manhandling by tax officers through the dedicated WhatsApp number 08142055272inmorder to ensure justice for citizens.
Several participants, including Eucharia Anekwe from the Gender & Social Development Center, Promise Chinwe Ezeigwe from ASMATA, and the General Secretary of Community Empowerment Network, acknowledged that the sensitization served as an eye-opener, clarifying their roles and responsibilities towards ensuring good governance in the state.
The event was part of SIDEC’s Tax for Service project was organised in conjunction with the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room with funding support from the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO).
