Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey has lamented that the rich always like to evade taxes.
He spoke on Thursday at the opening of a two-day induction workshop for the State’s Internal Revenue Board members.
He emphasized the importance of paying taxes, disclosing that the government was devising ways to ensure that the rich pay more taxes to cover up the lowly paid workers.
“We are working tirelessly to create opportunities, and to do more, we need our citizens to pay their taxes promptly,” he said.
He frowned at tax evasion, saying this was harmful to the state’s economy.
“My presence here underscores the level of trust and support this government has for the board, and why payments of taxes are very important to the government,” he added.
Odey emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the board’s efforts in driving revenue growth.
He also reiterated the need for the Board of Internal Revenue Service to position themselves professionally to increase the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
The Executive Chairman of the CRSIRS, Mr. Edwin Okon, stressed the importance of equipping board members with the right knowledge to manage the tax system effectively.
He noted that the workshop was crucial for ensuring that members were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The facilitator, Barr. Chukwuemeka Eze, in his presentation on Tax Dispute Resolution: Administration and Judiciary Perspectives, emphasized the need to demystify taxation, making it accessible and understandable for all.
He also urged board members to avoid political interference, stating, “The board’s work is professional. If we want results, we must engage competent individuals and steer clear of political decisions, which should be left to the executive.”