COVID-19: NCC Chair, Akande lauds Makinde for tax relief

Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Professor Adeolu Akande, has paid a glowing tribute to Governor Seyi Makinde for granting tax relief to private and corporate businesses in Oyo State.

The state had yesterday announced the decision of the governor to grant tax relief to further cushion the effect of the ravaging coronavirus pandemic on the state’s economy.

The APC chieftain noted that COVID-19 has affected almost everything that it would take many months, if not years, for things to normalise, adding that the relief could not have come at a better time.

According to him, “I cannot but commend Governor Seyi Makinde for the tax relief granted private and corporate businesses in the Oyo State. It is a well thought-out decision that could not have come at a better time.

“I must say that even before the coronavirus pandemic, our economy has not always been in the best shape. The Coronavirus pandemic has dealt an even bigger blow that many businesses have folded up. Some have sacked staff, while many pay their workers reduced salaries and allowances. It has not been a palatable experience. Business owners and workers have people who depend on them for survival. One can easily imagine what the dependants are going through at this point in time. When Government helps the private sector, it helps the people.

“So, granting tax relief is a welcome development at this time. It will help in considerable measure to stimulate the economy. It will not only reduce tensions associated with a bad economy but also keep many companies in business and workers in employment.

Speaking further, he urged Governor Makinde to come up with many pro-masses policies that will make life more meaningful to the people, adding that “Governor Seyi Makinde cannot do it alone. Government is all about putting heads together and coming up with pro-people decisions. He should continue to assemble a good team; eggheads in the various fields, who can deliver.”