The Ekiti State Government has announced plans to commence the collection of land use charges in its drive to boost the economy of the state through improved internally generated revenue.
The Ekiti state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, made this known on Monday during the 2023 Carols and Lessons service that took place at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, Ado Ekiti.
Oyebanji while making the announcement said the property tax would not in any way be a serious burden to the residents of Ekiti state as it is going to be progressive.
The Governor also called for the collaboration of all stakeholders on the scheme so that his administration can continue to meet its obligation to the people of the state.
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According to him, the property tax is going to be progressive based on the type and cost of property of an individual.
“I just want to plead with Ekiti people that by next year, we are going to start with land use charges in Ekiti state, because, if government must meet our obligations, we must raise money which I am sure will not bring any burden to anyone,” he said.
“We are going to do it in a way and manner that it is going to be progressive and we are starting in January. There is going to be a stakeholders’ meeting next week, where we are going to sit down with everybody in Ekiti state to explain this.
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“If we do this, it is going to increase our IGR, then we will be able to do more. Every time, I receive requests for transformer, for water, for road construction, for community days, all this money will come from somewhere.
“So, if there are areas, we have not explored, time has come to explore them, but one thing you can be sure of is that I will be accountable to you and to God.”
Source: Guardian