Tension as Revenue Agents Storm Markets/Shops Force Traders To Pay Cash in Anambra

There is tension in Anambra State as officials of the state Internal Revenue Service, AIRS, move from shop to shop in Awka, forcing the traders to pay taxes on the spot in cash. Accompanied by fierce-looking young men, the officials claimed that notices had earlier been sent to all the traders. At the popular Aroma area of the state capital, some of the business operators hurriedly closed their shops, while those who were caught unawares, were forced to pay cash based on the on-the-spot assessment of the contents of the shop.

The document titled, ‘Court Prosecution Notice’ which was signed by P.C. Oduche, Zonal Tax Head, Anambra Central read: “We write to inform you of your failure to file your annual tax returns as required by Section 41(3) of the Personal Income Tax Act2021(as amended) within 90 days from the commencement of every year assessment and to honour the notice of invitation and the best of judgment assessment already served on you.

“Take note that Anambra State Internal Revenue Service shall institute legal proceedings against you after seven days of service of this notice under Section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act and Section 69 of Anambra State Revenue Administration Law, 2010. Vanguard