Agribusiness owners allege imposition of multiple taxes in Oyo
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday, dissolved the State Executive Council. He also terminated the appointment of all political office holders.
In a letter signed by Chief of Staff to the Governor and Chairman, Transition and Inauguration Committee, Segun Ogunwuyi, the governor thanked all the appointees and asked them to handover government property in their custody.
MEANWHILE, agribusiness owners in Oyo State have raised concern over alleged imposition of heavy taxes by the state government. Group Managing Director, O.O.K. Group Limited, Omolara Svensson, who spoke on behalf of the agribusiness owners yesterday in Ibadan, said that the exorbitant taxes would discourage young Nigerian entrepreneurs from venturing into the agricultural sector.
She, therefore, urged the government to recognise the importance of supporting the agribusiness industry and not allow it to suffer. Svensson, who lamented that the taxes were not only hindering their businesses but also impeding the overall growth and development of the agricultural sector, urged government to genuinely listen to the concerns of those involved in agribusiness, rather than relying on individuals with political motives.
She, however, proposed a constructive dialogue between the government and agribusiness stakeholders, urging the establishment of a committee to address the issues effectively.
But responding to the allegations, Makinde, represented by his Special Adviser on Youth and Sports, Kazeem Bolarinwa, said the state government is committed to curbing multiple-taxation.
He said the government was unaware of the specific issue raised but promised to collaborate with relevant authorities to investigate and resolve the matter.
“As a progressive government, we are dedicated to reducing the burden of multiple taxes in the state. We will thoroughly examine the concerns raised today,” he said
We will ensure that any fund alleged to have been collected inappropriately do not exploit the people of the state,” the governor assured.
