Table water producers lament multiple taxation in Kogi

The Association of Table Water Producers in Kogi State has raised the alarm over what it described as excessive and multiple taxation by federal and state revenue agencies, saying the situation has led to the closure of more than 36 factories in Lokoja alone.

In a statement signed on Sunday by its state Chairman and Secretary, Mr Moses Momoh and Mr Sadiq Uteno, the association said the growing number of shutdowns had resulted in significant job losses and deepened economic hardship among its members.

“Our members are subjected to a plethora of taxes and levies, which includes Signage fees, Haulage charges, Environmental levies, NASDRA certification documentation fees (N70,000) per factory and SON fees (N8,400) also per factory,” the group said.

The group further listed emblem charges of N17,500 per vehicle, vehicle branding at N15,000 per vehicle, and a daily haulage fee of N1,000 per truck as part of the financial burdens crippling their operations.

The statement stressed that the cumulative effect of these taxes has led to a significant increase in production costs, making it impossible for many of its members to remain in business.

“For instance, the cost of a bag of pure water has skyrocketed from N150 to N400 due to these taxes,” the statement added.

According to the statement, the association has written several letters to the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, appealing for relief and waivers on some of these taxes.

He added, “We urge the government to take immediate action to address this issue and provide a conducive business environment for our industry to thrive.

“We equally appeal to the government to review and rationalise the taxes and levies imposed on our industry, provide relief and waivers to help our members recover from the devastating impact of multiple taxation and also create a favourable business environment that promotes economic growth and job creation.”

The association, however, commended the governor for his people-oriented administration, expressed confidence that the government would favourably attend to their plea.

“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is a listening governor who is more compassionate to the well-being of the people,” the statement added.