By SANDRA OPARA
In line with his policy to ensure the most conducive environment for tax payers, the Interim Chairman of Imo Internal Revenue Service, (IIRS), Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke has met with a section of Motor Dealers Association known as Ofuobi Motor dealers Association.
During the stakeholders meeting held at the instance of the Imo Internal Revenue (IGR) boss, at Okigwe road headquarters, he expressed the need to know the association’s modus operandi and their challenges.
In his words, Dr. Okeke stated: “Since I assumed office, it has been my interest to know who the Motor Vehicle Dealers are, your challenges and how we can help you in meeting up with your tax payments”
Dr. Okeke made it clear that tax payment is the statutory obligation of every citizen of the country despite person, position, and status.
He explained to the delegation that taxes are backed by law and as such are enforceable by law.
He enlightened them further on the benefits accruable to taxpayers and the nation at large when tax payment is given its pride of place for the overall development of the nation.
In his response, the Chairman and leader of the delegation, Mr. Emmanuel Amaechi appreciated the IIRS boss for the human face which his administration has adopted in dealing with tax-payer matters.
Mr. Amaechi informed the revenue boss of the existence of other Motor-Dealer Groups within the state and also used the opportunity to finger several challenges confronting the associations as the vicissitudes occasioned by the incessant relocation of their business premises by previous administration coupled with low patronage due to the harsh economic realities in the country.
Subsequently, both parties harmonized on the most convenient way for the association to meet up with their tax obligations as and when due.
In a vote of thanks, the Secretary of the delegation, Mr. Edoziem Chukwuemeka showered encomiums on the IIRS boss for giving them audience and commended him on his genuine interest in tax-payer matters.
Stakeholders engagement is a process that organisations follow in order to listen, collaborate with, and inform their existing stakeholders to enable both parties be on the same page.
