ASHENEWS reports that the Niger state governor, Umaru Bago has ordered tax collectors to exempt hawkers and petty traders across Niger state.
The governor made this known while briefing journalists at the Government House in Minna on Tuesday.
Bago, who decried the extortion of these traders by revenue collectors warned that anyone found guilty would be arrested.
“We have observed with dismay how petty traders and hawkers are being exploited with multiple taxes. We have therefore decided that henceforth, no petty reader should be taxed. Hawkers and petty traders are tax free in Niger state.
“Anybody found taxing them will be dealt with decisively for extortion,” he said.
He said that the Niger state government operates a centralised taxation system which exempts hawkers and petty traders.
The governor further warned local government chairmen and councillors to abide by the directive or risk prosecution.
