The Lagos State House of Assembly has advanced the Lagos State Harmonised Taxes and Levies Bill to the next legislative stage, committing it to the Committee on Finance for further scrutiny and public hearing.
The decision followed the second reading of the bill, presented by the Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Obafemi Saheed, who emphasised the urgent need for coordinated tax regulations between state and local governments.
According to him, the proposed legislation is designed to streamline tax administration, eliminate ambiguities, and create a unified framework for tax collection across Lagos State.
Contributing to the debate, Tobun Abiodun, representing Epe Constituency I, described the bill as a critical reform that would address the long-standing issue of multiple taxation in the state.
He noted that the bill would promote synergy between state and local authorities through clearly defined tax jurisdictions, while also tackling illegal revenue collection practices, including unauthorized roadblocks.
He added that the adoption of modern technology would improve efficiency in tax administration.
Similarly, Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa Constituency II, stated that the bill proposes the elimination of cash-based tax collection, a move aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability.
He added that the legislation also outlines penalties for defaulters to enhance compliance.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over plenary, said the bill is in the best interest of Lagos residents as it promotes a fair and equitable tax system based on the principle of progressive taxation.
He urged lawmakers to engage their constituents and raise awareness about the provisions of the bill to ensure public understanding and acceptance.
The Speaker subsequently directed the Committee on Finance to conduct a public hearing and submit its report within two weeks.
Written by Olusegun Haastrup