Opposition parties in Ekiti State, under the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), have faulted the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led administration for allegedly imposing arbitrary taxes on residents, warning that such policies could lead to job losses, frustration, and insecurity.
In a statement signed by CUPP Chairman, Chief Dare Adekolu, and Secretary, Hon. Fagboro Oluwole, the opposition parties described the new tax policy as a “killer tax regime”, urging the government to review it in the interest of the people.
Opposition Blasts Government’s Economic Policy
The CUPP lamented that Ekiti’s economy was already struggling, with many small businesses barely surviving. They argued that the tax regime would further worsen the economic situation, pushing businesses into collapse.
“The arbitrary tax system in Ekiti State has resulted in recurring protests by business owners across the state. This is unacceptable, and we urge the government to take immediate action to address the situation,” the statement read.
The opposition also criticized the government for failing to engage stakeholders before implementing the tax hike, describing the move as undemocratic and a threat to economic growth.
“The Ekiti economy needs to transition from being a civil servant-dominated state to a productive economy where the private sector thrives. However, this cannot be achieved by stifling small businesses that serve as a lifeline for many families.
Arbitrary taxation will not only kill industries and increase unemployment but will also destroy the economy. Recent tax receipts issued to businesses show significant tax increases, even amid the current economic hardship,” CUPP stated.
The opposition coalition called on the Oyebanji administration to focus on cutting the cost of governance and redirecting resources toward infrastructural development, which they argued would have a greater positive impact on the economy.
Ekiti Government Defends Tax Policy
Reacting to the allegations, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Taiwo Olatunbosun, dismissed the claims, accusing the opposition of spreading falsehoods to incite residents against the Oyebanji-led government.
Olatunbosun maintained that the government had not introduced any new taxes but had only blocked revenue loopholes and leveraged technology to enhance tax collection.
“The opposition parties are merely making noise and trying to discredit the unprecedented development the Oyebanji administration has brought to Ekiti State. Their allegations are baseless and politically motivated,” he said.
The commissioner emphasized that Ekiti’s revenue drive was aimed at improving governance and service delivery, urging residents to disregard the opposition’s claims.
