C’River abolishes taxes for low-income earners

Takes delivery of security vehicles

GOVERNOR Ben Ayade of Cross River State has abolished all forms of taxes for low-income earners in the state.

The governor, who disclosed this during a media chat in Calabar, said a bill to that effect had been sent to the House of Assembly.

Ayade said the poor could not continue to suffer while the rich keep amassing wealth without giving back, describing the bill as people-oriented.

Those affected by the tax exemption policy include civil servants on minimum wage, petty traders, commercial motorcycle riders, popularly known as Okada, recharge card vendors among others.

“Let our desperation for taxation not allow us to heap the burden on the poor. This must stop. Definitely, God has a purpose of bringing me here as a governor and I must not disappoint my creator,” Ayade stated.

He continued: “I therefore expect the Okada riders to live within the confines of the law when the bill becomes operational as they will be expected to ride and earn a good living.”

The governor disclosed that plans had reached advanced stage to explore the waterfronts with a view to generating revenue to cushion the effect of the new tax regime as well as boost the revenue profile of the state.

On the eight-month old judicial strike, the governor said the issue had been reviewed, adding that their entitlements will be fully offset month end. He urged the workers to reciprocate government’s gesture by returning to work to bring that arm of government back to life.

Meanwhile, the state government has taken delivery of four Mitsubishi patrol vans to boost the security outfit, “Operation Skolombo,” in its efforts to rid the state of criminals.

The vehicles, donated by a Calabar-based firm that craved anonymity, were received on behalf of the governor by his Chief of Staff, Martins Orim in Calabar.

The spokesperson for the company said his firm made the donation having observed the determination with which the current administration was handling issues of security.