By Praise Chinecherem
Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) has conducted a one-day sensitization program aimed at increasing awareness of taxation among various stakeholders.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Center (CISLAC) and supported by Oxfam Nigeria, sought to educate participants on the importance of tax payment as a civic duty. It provided a forum for individuals from the informal sector to voice their concerns regarding taxation and seek government intervention.
The workshop attracted a diverse group, including members of the Tax Justice and Governance Platform, traders, tax monitors, civil society advocates, media professionals, and relevant government officials.
Executive Director of SIDEC, Ugochi Ehiahuruike said the function is part of the group’s strategic move to enhance transparency, accountability, and civic engagement within Anambra State’s tax system, the
She emphasized the vital role taxation plays in generating revenue for public goods and services that benefit communities.
She however highlighted the numerous challenges and inefficiencies that often plague tax systems, undermining public trust and impeding economic growth.
“Through this platform, we aim to foster a collaborative environment where CSOs, tax monitors, members of TJ&GP, market leaders, government agencies, and other stakeholders can work together to advocate for tax justice, transparency, and good governance across the state,” she stated.
Ehiahuruike encouraged attendees to engage actively with tax policies and practices, enhance civic awareness, and advocate for a more equitable tax system, particularly within the informal sector.
In her presentation titled “Tax Education: Clarities on Tax and Levies,” Mrs. Amara Kate Oyeka, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue, acknowledged the challenges surrounding revenue collection in Anambra. She expressed optimism that with proper sensitization and increased awareness among citizens, Anambra could achieve a tax culture similar to that of Lagos State.
“It takes willing and patriotic citizens to make Anambra a better, bigger, and more business-friendly state. While the market is the largest contributor to the state’s IGR, we must acknowledge that our people still lack a strong tax culture. We will continue to educate and sensitize them on this crucial issue,” Oyeka asserted.
She also clarified the distinction between tax and levy, explaining that the market levy is a fixed charge imposed on traders to meet market needs, rather than personal income tax. “Many individuals are unaware of where and to whom they should pay their taxes, as well as the reasons behind tax payments. Taxation is a statutory obligation worldwide, not just in Anambra State,” she added.
Additionally, Sylvester Uzoh, a commander from the Unified Hybrid Enforcement Team (UHBET), addressed attendees regarding the team’s mission to ensure compliance with revenue payment and to prevent revenue leakage in the state. He highlighted UHBET’s establishment under the leadership of Dr. Greg Ezeilo as a means to liberate Ndi Anambra from the clutches of revenue fraud and mismanagement.
Market leaders voiced their concerns during the workshop, with Pastor Peter, leader of the Nnewi Motor Spare Parts Market, expressing disappointment at the state government’s neglect despite the significant revenues generated from their market. He noted that traders had to independently fund the installation of solar lights and repair toilet facilities in the market due to a lack of government support.
“The projects cost us dearly, but we felt compelled to act since we could not rely on the government’s attention. While we appreciate some road constructions, we urge the government to prioritize others to facilitate movement in and around the market. Security is also a major concern for us,” he remarked.
Chief Innocent Ezeoha Ezenanya, leader of Onitsha Main Market, reiterated the need for improvements, including the installation of solar lights throughout the market, better road access to Ochanja Market and Bida Road, and renovation of dilapidated toilet facilities.
Various officials from relevant ministries, including Mrs. Henrietta Basil, Director of Commerce, and Mr. Arthur Iweanya, Director of Planning in the Ministry of Economic Planning, Budget, and Development Partners, also provided insights in response to concerns raised by the traders.
The Tax Justice and Governance Platform, a collaborative initiative, aims to enhance civic awareness and education on tax policies, promote transparency and accountability in tax revenue collection, advocate for tax justice, and support capacity building for civil society organizations and government agencies.
