TRICYCLE OPERATORS KICK AGAINST ALLEGED MULTIPLE TAXATION IN BAYELSA

Commercial tricycle operators in Bayelsa State, under the aegis of the Unified Tricycle Executive and Riders Association of Bayelsa State (UTERAB), have appealed to Governor Douye Diri and the Chairman of the State Board of Internal Revenue to address what they described as multiple taxation by government agencies.

Speaking to journalists in Yenagoa, the state capital, the operators commended Governor Diri for his continued support, particularly the construction of internal roads across the state, which they said has eased transportation and improved their operations.

They also praised the governor for reducing the cost of the E-Emblem from ₦7,500 to ₦4,000. However, they expressed concern over the introduction of additional stickers by some government agencies, warning that it could amount to double taxation.

The Overall Chairman of UTERAB, Mr. Vincent Dede, and the General Secretary, Mr. Humphrey Ikiabo, explained that purchasing the E-Emblem for ₦4,000, the Local Government sticker for ₦2,000, and the Sanitation sticker for ₦3,500 would bring the total to ₦9,500.

According to them, the cumulative cost could force operators to increase transport fares, thereby affecting commuters and putting further strain on their businesses.

The association, therefore, called on the governor and relevant authorities to intervene in the interest of peace and harmony, noting that the additional levies could make their operations unsustainable.

Reported By Isaac Eyedoude