By Ononye VC
Traders in Onitsha main market,the largest market in West Africa were on Wednesday tutored on the need and benefits of paying taxes while doing business.
A non governmental organisation known as “The Society of Women in Taxation”(SWIT)led by its president Dr Lady Ifeoma Obieri (LSM)took the lectures to the large group of traders.
The traders used the opportunity to learn the basic knowledge of taxation,the reasons behind it and what is achievable by paying taxes to the government.
They were told that taxes were used for development and provision of basic infrastructure and general welfare of the citizens.
According to lady Obieri,it would become almost impossible for government to work and operate the system if people refuse to pay taxes.
Also,she pointed out that those who pay their taxes are regarded as good citizens as it is more of a crime to avoid paying taxes.
She said that the SWIT is always available to assist the traders in sorting out tax issues to enable them to pay their taxes without problems.
She pointed out that the era of the old system of paying taxes by ordeal has gone and that taxes of various dimensions can be settled in civilised way.
She thanked the traders who gathered at the White House for receiving them and gave assurances of cooperating with them as the need arises.
The market leaders expressed gratitude to the SWIT team after question and answer sessions