The Tax Payers Association of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to urgently address the issue of multiple taxation in the country.
It, however, commended the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, for her position on the issue of multiple taxation and its consequences on the economy.
The group, in a statement in Abuja, also decried the cumbersome nature of filling processes confronting taxpayers.
The statement was signed by Chairman, Board of Trustees, TAPAN, Mr. Valentine Nzekwe, and President of the association, Mr. Philip Ilokhulo.
The group stated that unless the minister’s advice was heeded, the trend could have adverse effects on businesses and the economy.
TAPAN, which said it would address the nation on Sunday, October 27 on burning national issues, stressed that it was concerned about multiple taxation and the use of taxpayers’ fund for the delivery of the dividends of democracy.
It commended President Goodluck Jonathan for his administration’s achievements in the agriculture, works and transport sectors, and wondered why some states would have 97 different taxes, levies and charges imposed on businesses.
“The minister is right; this could kill businesses and have adverse effects on taxpayers,” it said in the statement.
TAPAN urged the government to also heed the advice of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and review the various taxes and levies on businesses in order to ensure an effective diversification of the economy and encourage competition.
It called on the Federal Government and the tax authorities to ensure there was transparency in the tax regime and make the procedure of payment easier for taxpayers.
[Punch]
