Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has issued a stern warning to revenue collectors, urging them to refrain from collecting taxes from vegetable sellers and other small traders. The governor emphasized the importance of treating these individuals with compassion and avoiding unnecessary financial burdens on them.
During the swearing-in ceremony of members of the Revenue Appeal Commission, Governor Nwifuru expressed his disapproval of taxing those who sell farm produce in local markets. He stressed the need to focus on larger businesses and avoid targeting vulnerable traders.
“I have instructed the Revenue Service to prioritize taxing big business owners. There is no justification for burdening vegetable sellers with taxes on their hard-earned produce,” Governor Nwifuru stated.
He urged the Chairman of the Revenue Service and Appeal Commission, Augustine Nwankwegu, and his team to approach their duties with empathy and fairness. The governor emphasized the importance of improving the state’s Internally Generated Revenue without causing undue hardship to the people.
Nwankwegu, speaking on behalf of the commission members, expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve. He pledged to work diligently to enhance the state’s revenue and create a more conducive environment for business operations.
Governor Nwifuru’s directive reflects a commitment to promoting economic growth while safeguarding the interests of small-scale traders. By prioritizing fairness and compassion in tax collection, Ebonyi State aims to foster a business-friendly environment and support the livelihoods of its residents.
