FIC REPORT (ABIA STATE) – The Abia State Government has clarified that the ongoing reforms in tax administration, being implemented in line with existing tax laws and the new national tax framework, do not amount to an increase in taxes payable by citizens.
Governor Alex Otti also approved ₦1 million each for 31 verified Abia returnees from South Africa and unveiled a week-long programme to commemorate the State’s 35th anniversary.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this at Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Otti.
Prince Kanu said the tax reforms were designed to make administration more transparent, traceable, auditable, automated and taxpayer-friendly, while eliminating revenue leakages, multiple collections and arbitrary practices.
“Automation is not a tax increase.
Transparency is not a tax increase. Closing revenue leakages is not a tax increase,” he stated.
He stressed that there had been no increase in PAYE, land taxes, vehicle licence fees or Tax Clearance Certificate charges, explaining that the State Board of Internal Revenue lacked the power to unilaterally alter tax rates, as changes in taxation must be backed by legislation.
According to him, the integration of revenue collection systems, particularly at vehicle licensing offices, is intended to reduce cash handling, improve accountability and ensure that payments made by taxpayers are properly captured and remitted to government.
On Tax Clearance Certificates, the Commissioner explained that taxpayers would be properly assessed in line with the law, stressing that not every inflow into a bank account would automatically be treated as taxable income. Taxpayers would have the opportunity to explain and substantiate transactions where necessary.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Dr. Emmanuel Okpechi, said the consolidated demand notice for businesses was designed to harmonise existing charges and eliminate multiple collections by different government agencies.
“Instead of multiple people coming to harass you, you pay at one point and you are cleared,” he said.
The Executive Chairman of the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue, Mr. Uche Elekwachi, also reiterated that the Board had not increased taxes but was enforcing existing laws, improving compliance and blocking revenue leakages.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, said the clarification became necessary against the backdrop of claims by some opposition figures alleging tax increases
Meanwhile, Governor Otti has approved the immediate disbursement of ₦1 million each to 31 verified Abia returnees from South Africa as interim support to assist them in resettling.
Prince Kanu said the gesture was intended to provide immediate relief and reassure the returnees that the State Government had not abandoned them in their moment of need.
He disclosed that government was undertaking comprehensive profiling of the returnees to determine their individual circumstances and socio-economic needs and develop appropriate reintegration and social protection programmes.
The Governor has also directed the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection to investigate whether additional Abians remain stranded in South Africa, with a view to providing appropriate assistance.
The Commissioner said the intervention reflected the administration’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of vulnerable Abians, irrespective of their location or circumstances.
As part of activities marking 35 years of Abia State, the government has unveiled a week-long programme designed to reflect on the State’s journey, achievements and renewed development agenda.
The anniversary programme will commence on Sunday, August 23, with an interdenominational thanksgiving service at the Michael Okpara Square Event Centre within the Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal premises in Umuahia.
On Tuesday, August 25, Governor Otti will commission completed projects and flag off new ones across the State, showcasing the administration’s investments in infrastructure and development.
Wednesday, August 26, will be dedicated to Youth Innovation Day, featuring a hackathon and technology exhibition aimed at celebrating creativity, innovation and the growing role of young Abians in shaping the future of the State.
The celebrations will climax on Thursday, August 27, the exact date Abia State was created in 1991. The day will begin with a state broadcast by Governor Otti, followed by an anniversary keynote lecture examining Abia’s development trajectory from its creation to the present.
Prince Kanu said the anniversary would provide an opportunity to reflect on the progress made over 35 years and renew collective commitment to building a more prosperous and sustainable Abia.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the State Executive Council joined in commemorating the 85th birthday of former military administrator, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, who turned 85 . Governor Otti had earlier congratulated the former military administrator on the milestone.
The anniversary, the government said, is therefore not merely a celebration of 35 years of statehood, but an opportunity to acknowledge Abia’s progress, reflect on its journey and chart a stronger path towards a future where development is visible, governance is accountable, opportunities are expanded and every citizen can look forward to a better life.
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC FIC ,Umuahia Abia State.
19th August,2026.
