Politics
Federal Government Denies Involvement Of Area Boys In Tax Collection Says Oyedele
Federal Government Denies Involvement Of Area Boys In Tax Collection Says Oyedele....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has clarified that the Federal Government is not in the process of recruiting ‘area boys’ for tax collection. Oyedele addressed the issue in a statement shared via his X handle over the weekend……..CONTINUE READING
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Previously, Oyedele’s remarks during an interview with Channels Television had sparked public outcry. He had mentioned the possibility of training area boys for tax collection, emphasizing the need to provide them with decent salaries to deter their involvement in unscrupulous activities.
In response to the backlash, Oyedele explained that his comment was taken out of context. He asserted that individuals cannot be recruited for jobs they are already engaged in, whether legally or otherwise. Oyedele highlighted the prevalence of over 40 taxes and levies authorized by law for collection by States and Local Governments across Nigeria, often enforced by area boys through unconventional and harassing methods.
Expressing the inefficiency of the current tax system, Oyedele proposed eliminating many taxes and harmonizing others, using civil means of collection through mobile phones. He emphasized that the issue he raised was not about recruiting more tax collectors but finding common ground with those already involved in the system.
Oyedele clarified, “I did not mention any word like recruit or employ. My thought on it beyond the legal aspect was to consider the social dimension and find a practical solution that has a high chance of success.”
He suggested the government could train current collectors to behave civilly, pay them decently, and transition their role to driving and monitoring compliance. This, he believes, would result in a win-win outcome, with lower payments from taxpayers, increased government revenue, and enhanced societal benefits.
In October 2023, Oyedele’s committee presented a quick win report with 20 recommendations, which President Bola Tinubu promptly directed for immediate implementation upon receiving the document.
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