In an open letter addressed to Governor Peter Mbah, Labour Party’s 2023 Enugu governorship candidate, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, has called for an urgent review of the heavy and multiple taxes imposed on the people of Enugu State. Edeoga expressed deep concern over the “inhuman and punitive” tax policies that have left residents struggling under unbearable financial burdens.
Edeoga criticized the arbitrary nature of the taxes, noting that they contradict fundamental principles of taxation, such as fairness and efficiency. He highlighted the plight of Enugu citizens, who are already suffering from poor economic conditions, exacerbated by a lack of basic amenities, including reliable electricity. According to Edeoga, even when electricity is available, residents still face inflated bills due to the absence of prepaid meters, a failure of the government to provide a more equitable solution.
In his letter, titled “Heavy and Multiple Taxes: Have Mercy on the People of Enugu State,” Edeoga implored the governor to reconsider the harsh tax regime. He emphasized that the taxes are disproportionately affecting the poor, many of whom are already struggling with the combined challenges of poverty, leadership failure, and flawed policies.
Edeoga painted a vivid picture of the economic hardships endured by Enugu’s people, likening them to “walking ghosts” burdened by the state’s regressive taxation policies. He expressed dismay that the government, rather than offering relief, continues to impose excessive taxes that stifle small and medium-sized businesses, forcing many to shut down or relocate to more business-friendly areas.
He appealed to the governor’s Christian faith, referencing biblical passages that call for mercy and compassion. “Governor Peter Mbah, the people of Enugu have had enough. They need relief, not more pressure. Your policies are pushing them to the brink,” he wrote.
The letter outlined a range of tax increases, which Edeoga described as “unjustifiable” in the face of the state’s poor economic conditions. He highlighted specific instances of tax hikes, including:
- Tenement tax for bungalows in Enugu, rising from ₦30,000 to ₦150,000 annually.
- Taxes on high-rise buildings in low- and high-density areas have skyrocketed, with some paying up to ₦400,000.
- Private school tax has seen a sharp increase from ₦30,000 to ₦200,000 annually.
- Daily taxes for transport operators, including buses and tricycles, have jumped significantly, creating additional strain on low-income earners.
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Edeoga also decried the introduction of new taxes, including a generator tax for hotels, ranging from ₦88,000 to ₦200,000, depending on the size of the establishment. He pointed out the presence of a “Purchase Tax” on goods and services, leading to what he termed “double taxation” on already heavily taxed items.
Drawing a parallel to the Aba Women’s Riot of 1929, where Igbo women protested against taxation without representation under colonial rule, Edeoga warned that the current administration risks repeating the mistakes of history. “It is shocking that nearly 100 years later, we find ourselves battling the same issues of oppressive taxation—this time under a government led by one of our own.”
Edeoga concluded by urging Governor Mbah to reevaluate his administration’s tax policies, emphasizing the need for fairness, compassion, and economic justice for the people of Enugu State.
