Abuja residents demand harmonisation of taxes in FCT
…wants Tinubu to include indigene in ministerial list
By Tunde Opalana
Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja have condemned multiple taxation in all the six council areas and demanded harmonisation of all taxes for harmonious governance.
Addressing the press Tuesday in Abuja, the Abuja Youth Residents Association urged decision makers in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), to ensure a uniform set of rules governing businesses including tax collection.
Comrade Akosile Muktah on behalf of the Association said a unified tax regime will enhance businesses and investment.
The Association said the FCTA should be accorded the same privilege as other states of the federation and should be allowed to control fixing and collection of taxes in FCT rather than allow area councils to collect taxes different from FCTA.
“Our association has consistently observed the harmonious relationship between the Area Councils in Abuja and the FCTA, which has contributed to a uniform set of rules governing businesses and other activities in the FCT.
“We urge all stakeholders to maintain this spirit of harmony, particularly concerning tax harmonisation , as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Implementing this measure will not only increase revenue but also promote transparency in tax collection processes.
“While we recognize the constitutional empowerment of local governments to collect taxes, we also emphasize the need for exercising these powers with caution. It is essential to adopt policies that align with national development goals, attract investment, and prevent multiple taxation. We call on all local governments to support this policy which aims to encourage corporate entities to comply with tax regulations”.
The Association as well urged President Tinubu to endure an all inclusive government by appointing an FCT indigene in his cabinet.
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Making the demand, the Association said “as President Bola Tinubu begins the crucial task of forming a substantive cabinet to drive his economic and governance reform agenda, we the residents of the Federal Capital Territory draw the attention that there is an urgent need to provide a sense of belonging to the indigenous people of Abuja beyond mere being the host of the nation’s political capital and seat of government.
“Ensuring equity and inclusivity in government demands the representation of the indigenous people of the FCT through a cabinet – level appointee “
Comrade Akosile pledges the continuous support of the Association to the FCTA and the Presidency in building a Nigeria that fosters the prosperity of all its citizens.
