COVID-19: Governor Umahi Exempts, Hawkers, Petty Traders, Others From Tax

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Umahi, Thursday, reiterated his commitment to providing a conducive business environment in the state as he re-introduced tax relief. 

According to the Governor, the encouragement of tax relief is for people that engage in hawking, handiwork and others which petty trading are sources of their income.

"They will enjoy tax relief to ensure that they are not shut off in their quest to eke out a living."

Recall that Ebonyi was the first state to grant tax relief on hawkers and other peasant traders.

The Governor in his 'State of Affairs' broadcast held Thursday said he has exempted all hawkers and petty traders in the state from all forms of taxes, urging them to report any form of molestation to his office.

Umahi explained that it became necessary to exempt these classes as a result of the role they play in the economic development of their families and the state by extension.

"We cannot be taxing them when they earn little. It is wrong. From today henceforth, let nobody collect anything from them."

"This is what we have been doing and we will continue in this direction for our people."

"About nine months back, we had already decided that there will be no tax on hawkers, even those who are carrying vegetables or tomatoes in a very small dimension. We were the first to do that. We've already said and it is a tax for us to retrieve the economy and also to appreciate their daily efforts in choosing to do something with their hand instead of engaging in criminality."

"We are also going to provide another form of tax relief where all taxing that is due for payment could be renegotiated in the office of the deputy governor so that latter day, it could be paid."

"Those who want us not to collect tax are making mistakes because as far there is life and blood gush, we must generate sweat and our sweat will lead us to pay tax so that we can provide services for our people but you have every right to query what your tax is doing for the state", he said.