Delta targets N12bn monthly IGR, moves against tax evasion

A multifaceted campaign is to be deployed by the Delta State Bureau of Orientation to sensitise citizens on the legal implications of tax evasion and the need for individuals and operators in the informal sector to pay taxes to the government when due.

The Head of the Bureau and Executive Assistant on Orientation and Communications to the Governor of Delta State, Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe, stated this on Saturday in Asaba.

Oghenesivbe said the bureau will partner with the State Internal Revenue Services to drive the campaign in line with the government’s objective of raking in N12 billion and above monthly, next year.

He said, “We are committed, and ready to partner with government agencies and organisations to drive the MORE agenda of Governor Oborevwori, through strategic campaigns that touch on government policies, programmes as well as to emphasise the need for citizens to perform their civic responsibilities, such as payment of taxes to the government as at when due.

“We hope to partner with the State Internal Revenue Services to drive the campaign against tax evasion and avoidance, reach out to our schools and the mass media to also sensitive our people and youth on the need to stay away from crime, avoid drug abuse and other societal ills.

“The lofty programmes encapsulated in the MORE agenda are such that touches on all segments, sectors, and social strata, including job and health creation programmes that would transform our street boys and girls to the enviable status of good boys, girls, and successful entrepreneurs.

“Tax evasion and avoidance is a serious criminal offence which must be discouraged, payment of taxes is an integral part of citizens civic responsibility to the state”.

Oghenesivbe said the bureau, will drive aggressive and impactful public enlightenment programmes via the mass media; radio and television jingles, a podcast for social media, billboards, and town hall meetings in communities and institutions of learning.