The House of Representatives has called for a review of existing tax laws to prevent the imposition of unnecessary and multiple taxes on citizens, especially concerning essential goods and services.
In a motion sponsored by Mr. Peter Udogalanya Aniekwe and three others, the lawmakers tasked the committees on Finance and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to conduct a review within three weeks. The goal is to streamline tax collection processes and eliminate redundant or overlapping taxes.
Aniekwe noted that multiple taxes only increase the financial strain on low-income citizens, who are already struggling to meet basic needs. “Government’s primary responsibility is to alleviate the economic challenges faced by the masses,” he said.
He stressed that while taxation is necessary, “a balance must be struck between revenue generation and the economic well-being of citizens.”
The House also urged the government to explore alternative revenue strategies, such as widening the tax net to include more high-income earners, and improving tax enforcement.