Rivers Assembly: Stakeholders kick against Wike’s proposed new tax Bills.

Stakeholders have vehemently kicked against the bills seeking to introduce new tax regimes in the state. The bills are the Rivers state Hotels Occupancy and Restaurant Consumption Bill, and the Rivers state Taxes and Levies Miscellaneous Bill.



Stakeholders who attended the public hearing on the bill noted that introduction of new taxes amounts to double taxation, adding that if not properly checked, it may stifle entrepreneurship in Rivers state.

Others suggested that a proper legal framework and accountability check should be put in place before the introduction of the new taxes.

Meanwhile, the Rivers state Hotels Union, which is the umbrella body of Hotels and Restaurants and its affiliate members said they are already paying nineteen different taxes and Levies as well as VATs to the Rivers state government.

Chairman of the union, Eugene Nwuzi said the union is not in support of the bill.
On his part, Chairman of the Rivers state Chapter of the Trade Union Congress, Chika Onuegbu in his submission said there is a subsisting court judgment against Social Services Law.

Onuegbu stated that, “The fact is that both bills are coming at a time when the Nigerian economy is facing severe pressures; and businesses and people are finding it very difficult to survive.
“As we speak, many families in Rivers State do not know where the next meal will come from. Hunger and hopelessness is on the rise. People are losing their jobs every single day.

“And the economic pressures on the workers and the ordinary people are not abating. As we speak, businesses in Rivers State are struggling to survive.
“They are battling with all kinds multiple and double taxation, difficult operating environment and the rising and unacceptable level of insecurity in Rivers state. And many are closing down or even relocating to more business friendly States.

“The few businesses that are remaining in Rivers State may be forced to closed shop and seek alternative locations in other States if and when these two tax laws become effective.”
Speaking with DAILY POST, the Chairman, adhoc Committee on Finance, Edison Ehie said, “the observations of the stakeholders will be taken into consideration. We are going to try our best to strike a balance. The public has made a lot of important points on this bill.”


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