Cattle, Foodstuff Dealers Decry Multiple Taxes

The Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria (AUFCDN) has voiced dissatisfaction over the excessive taxes imposed on its members along the South-South and Southeast highways.

During a meeting in Enugu aimed at enhancing market operations and promoting member welfare, AUFCDN National President Mohammed Tahir highlighted these concerns.

Tahir pointed out that members faced challenges with illegal tax collection during the transportation of foodstuff and cattle to these regions, hindering smooth operations and resulting in high consumer prices.

“Our members are mandated to pay taxes at loading and off-loading points, a practice observed in the Southwest and the North. However, those transporting foodstuff and cattle from the North to the South-South and Southeast regions encounter numerous challenges, including multiple taxations,” Tahir explained.

He further elaborated, “For example, when traveling from Maiduguri to Lagos, there are no such challenges. After paying taxes at the loading point in Maiduguri, no additional taxes are incurred until reaching Lagos. However, traveling to the South-South and Southeast from Maiduguri involves encountering challenges in states like Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, Abia, Imo, Rivers, Bayelsa, Enugu, Anambra, Edo, and Delta.”

In response, Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture Patrick Ubru, represented by Segun Olukoya, disclosed that the government had introduced an e-ticketing system to combat illegal tax collection. He emphasized the government’s commitment to standardizing taxes to eliminate multiple taxation, which adversely affects businesses in the state.

Ubru encouraged cattle and foodstuff dealers to ensure their tax payments were made online, advising them not to engage with individuals who refuse to accept online payments.

Agronigeria/Oyenike Oyeniyi