Akwa Ibom government is said to have collected more revenue in the third quarter of this year compared to same period last year.
The executive Chairman of Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Okon Okon who announced this during interaction with journalists in Uyo on Wednesday did not disclose the figure, saying that the amount has not yet been audited for publication.
On reinforcement of tax laws in the country, Okon recalled the recent sealing of three branches of banks for failure to remit their taxes into the state government’s coffers.
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He noted that the defaulting banks did not keep the terms of agreement with the government by paying their taxes to avoid taking action that could be embarrassing to their corporate image.
‘‘Once we get restraining order from the court against our debtor, we have to enforce it. The affected banks have been coming to to us for a discussion. After the failing to meet the conditions of agreement within the window opened for it, we will sell the property to collect our indebtedness,’’ Okon stated.
He emphasised the determination of government to go after tax defaulters.
“While we work to ensure a more friendly tax environment, we will not condone tax evasion from any taxpayer. Those who are owing us tax liabilities should pay up to avoid legitimate actions that might be taken against them.
‘‘Companies that are running underground should honour their tax obligations as at when due so that we can optimise internal revenue generation for the effective running of the government,” he added.
Okon said the state government is committed to creating a more friendly tax environment to enhance the growth of businesses in the state.
According to him, tax harmonisation and enhancement of the ease of doing business are part of the ongoing initiatives of Governor Umo Eno-led administration.
He said Governor Eno is interested in tax administration that will strategically enhance the ease of doing business by nano, micro, small and medium-scale entrepreneurs in the State in-line with his ARISE agenda which have development of NMSMEs as one of its pivots for youth empowerment and economic growth.
The Executive Chairman stated that harmonisation of tax administration in the state with the aim of eradicating multiple taxation is one of the tax administration initiatives given very serious attention by the His Excellency, the Governor.
He said, “His Excellency the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, is taking the issue of a friendly but productive tax environment very seriously. He wants to promote the ease of doing business in Akwa Ibom State. He wants nano, micro, small, and medium scale entrepreneurs, a segment that is close to his heart to thrive and as well pay their taxes.
The Chairman, however, clarified that a more friendly tax ecosystem does not mean people and businesses should not pay their taxes, which is the citizens’ obligation under the social contract.
“We want to avoid by any means possible all actions or activities that may lead to multiple taxation or may constitute duplication in taxes. That is what the Governor stands for.
“It is evident that the Pastor Umo Eno-led administration has hit the ground running with numerous projects and programmes rolled out in the first few months of this government.
“Our minimum expectation is that the citizens will respond accordingly by supporting the ongoing ARISE Agenda of this government with their civic obligation of voluntary compliance with payment of taxes.’’
