Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to expedite action on the passage of the Tax Harmonisation Law, accusing his administration of failing to address the problem of multiple taxation and illegal revenue collection across the state.
In a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity, Senator Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation (SSACO), Bisi Oladele, on Sunday, November 8, Alli expressed concern over reported cases of illegal levies imposed on farm produce and other commodities by individuals allegedly operating as revenue agents for the state government.
He said farmers transporting produce from Oyo North to Ibadan, as well as traders moving goods from Ibadan to other parts of the state, were subjected to harassment and extortion at various roadblocks mounted by the alleged illegal collectors.
According to him, the practice has increased the cost of transporting essential commodities, reduced the profit margins of farmers and small-scale business owners, and placed additional financial pressure on consumers.
The APC candidate maintained that residents, farmers, transporters and business owners deserved protection from multiple taxation and what he described as crude methods of revenue collection under the Makinde administration.
He explained that the Tax Harmonisation Law was designed to streamline taxes collected by state and local governments, eliminate arbitrary and unauthorised levies, and curb the activities of illegal tax collectors and individuals exploiting motorists under the guise of revenue generation.
Alli regretted what he described as the state government’s lack of commitment to domesticating the legislation, arguing that the delay had allowed multiple taxation and unauthorised revenue collection to persist.
He also noted that some states had already passed the law, while others were taking steps to complete the legislative process, urging the Makinde administration to demonstrate greater commitment to protecting businesses and residents from excessive taxation.
The governorship candidate, however, assured residents that if elected governor, his administration would ensure the passage of the Tax Harmonisation Law within its first 100 days in office.
He said his proposed tax framework would protect farmers, transporters and business owners, encourage commercial activities and promote economic growth without imposing unnecessary burdens on residents.
