Abia government clarifies tax reforms and denies any tax increase
The Abia State Government has addressed concerns about its ongoing tax administration reforms, emphasizing that there is no increase in taxes for residents. Okey Kanu, the state Commissioner for Information, explained that the reforms focus on transparency, accountability, and making tax processes easier. The government insists that automation and integration of revenue systems are meant to eliminate leakages and multiple collections, not to raise taxes. Officials also highlighted that all payments are now consolidated to prevent harassment and ensure compliance with existing tax laws.
What we know
- Okey Kanu stated that the reforms are designed to make tax administration more transparent, traceable, auditable, automated, and taxpayer-friendly.
- The government has not increased Pay-As-You-Earn, land, or vehicle taxes, and the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue cannot unilaterally alter tax rates.
- Integration of revenue collection, especially at vehicle licensing offices, aims to eliminate cash handling and ensure proper remittance.
- Dr Emmanuel Okpechi explained that the consolidated demand notice for businesses was introduced to harmonise charges and stop multiple collections.
- Uche Elekwachi confirmed there is no increment in taxes and clarified that taxpayers will not receive multiple demand notices after making the required payment.
