Ize-Iyamu Expresses Worry over High Taxation in Edo

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in the INEC scheduled party primaries in June, Pastor Osagie Ize-iyamu, has expressed worry over the high taxation of Edo people by the Adams Oshiomhole-led All Progressive Congress (APC) administration, saying that the outrageous increase has brought pains to the people due to the arbitrary and punitive mode of assessment and collection of taxes.

While acknowledging the improvement in tax revenue from the paltry N300 million in the administration of Lucky Igbinedion to a huge N2 billion monthly, he, however, alleged that companies, shops and other viable business outfits and economically viable institutions have closed down and left the state as a result of constant harassment by touts operating as officials and agents of government.

He added that the high taxation has further compelled Edo residents to seek other alternatives arising from the high fees, stringent conditions and corrupt practices, which, according to him, have forced vehicle owners in the state to prefer to go to Delta State and other neigbouring states to register their vehicle, thereby enriching those states to the detriment of Edo State.

“When the economy of a state is good, tax revenue is high. The present government has done nothing tangible to assist, stimulate or improve the business environment. Government which obviously is the highest spender, does not patronize local businesses or contractors thereby encouraging capital flight and making our state unattractive for local entrepreneurs.

“The ongoing application for Certificate of Occupancy needed for land documentation, loans and business transactions have been abandoned by their owners in the state because of the prohibitive charges that government has imposed on its acquisition”, he said.

FURTHER DETAILS LATER