Abia State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong disapproval over the state government’s policy requiring churches to pay taxes on their signposts, ABN TV reports.
In a letter addressed to Governor Dr. Alex Otti, CAN described Abia as “God’s Own State” and noted that it’s the only state in the federation imposing this tax on churches.
The letter, signed by Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma, State CAN Chairman, and Rev. Dr. Francis E. Okere, State CAN Secretary, urged Governor Otti to reconsider this policy, citing concerns it may be perceived as anti-church. They proposed a roundtable discussion with Christian leaders to resolve the issue amicably.
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The letter reads;
His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR Executive Governor, Abia State.
Sir,
TAXATION OF CHURCH SIGNPOST IN ABIA STATE.
Calvary greetings from the throne of mercy.
On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Abia State Chapter, we write to express our displeasure over the State Government’s Policy of compelling churches to be paying taxes on their signposts. As a Christian and God’s own state, it is regrettable that Abia State is the only State in the whole federation that is taxing churches on their signposts.
We therefore, passionately plead with your Excellency as a matter of urgency to carefully look into this matter and possibly rescind this policy to avoid compelling the Body of Christ in the State from seeing this regime as being anti-church.
Furthermore, Sir, Leaders of the Christian Body in the State can be invited for a round table discussion on the way forward over this very little but delicate issue.
While looking forward to your favourabe response, accept our esteemed assurances of our unalloyed support and prayers.
Yours truly,
Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma State CAN Chairman
Rev. Dr. Francis E. Okere State CAN Secretary
ABN TV reports that this development comes amidst Governor Otti’s commitment to improving the lives of Abians and his vow to reverse anti-people policies. The governor has also emphasized the importance of working harmoniously with the judicial arm and ensuring responsive governance.
