Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State on Thursday in Ibadan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Coalition of Organised Private Sector (OPS), granting the body reprieve on multiple taxation.
The issues of multiple taxation border on Land Use Charge, Emission and Industrial Effluent Control Charge and Public Supply of Water Resources.
Ajimobi said that the state government has over the past one year, or so, been engaged in series of extensive discussions and negotiation with coalition of the core segment of OPS.
“I will like to register the appreciation of the state government of the magnanimity and resourcefulness of the leaders of the coalition of the OPS for facilitating the process of the MoU.”
According to him, the feedback mechanism from the coalition is targeted at evolving a robust and enduring framework for periodic bilateral critique and review of policies and issues.
These, he said, include taxes, rates, charges and fees that impacted directly on businesses in the state.
The coalition comprises the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises and Hotel Owners’ Association.
Ajimobi said that the opportunity provided by the Bureau of Investment Promotion and Public Private Partnership had availed the business community a unique platform of direct interface and engagement with key ministries.
Mike Fowowe, the President of the coalition, told newsmen after the ceremony that the state government had conceded to many of their requests even though some of the terms were open ended.
“We did not find it easy agreeing on some issues because the government wants to increase the state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR),” he said.
Fowowe said that most companies and private sector operators were struggling and in poor shape because of inadequate infrastructure in the state.
“The government team has agreed that there will always be opportunity to engage them in case any matter comes up any time,” he said.
The Deputy Governor, Moses Adeyemo, signed the MOU on behalf of Ajimobi while Fowowe represented the coalition.
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