In Kwara State, amidst the hustle and bustle of economic challenges, Boniface Okeke, the spirited president-general of the Igbo Community, is making waves. With a phone pressed to his ear and determination in his voice, Okeke is calling for change. He’s not just any voice in the crowd; he’s the leading advocate for a fair shake in tax demands from the State Revenue Service.
In a recent tête-à-tête with Newsmen, Okeke didn’t hold back. He urged the powers that be to take a second look at their tax demands, considering the tough times we’re all navigating through. It’s not just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s about keeping the wheels of commerce turning in Kwara State.
But that’s not all. Okeke isn’t just asking for a quick fix; he’s in it for the long haul. He’s pushing for the Revenue Service to give them the time they need to school their members on the new tax collection methods. After all, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to navigating the murky waters of tax obligations.
The sparks really started flying when tensions flared between Igbo traders and the KWIRS, resulting in some Igbo-owned shops getting the padlock treatment from the Revenue Agency’s Mobile Court. It was a tough blow for business in Ilorin, the State capital, but Okeke isn’t one to back down from a challenge.
Despite the setbacks, Okeke remains optimistic. He’s all about finding common ground and fostering a spirit of cooperation between the Igbo community and KWIRS. With a nod to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration, Okeke emphasizes the solid relationship Igbos in the state have built and their commitment to being model taxpayers.
But it’s not just about paying up; it’s about doing it in a way that leaves everyone smiling. Okeke believes in the power of dialogue and mutual understanding. It’s not just about reopening shops; it’s about opening the door to constructive conversations and finding solutions that work for everyone involved.
As Okeke wraps up his call, you can’t help but feel the energy and determination in his words. With leaders like him at the helm, there’s hope for smoother sailing ahead in Kwara State’s tax waters.
