APC raises alarm over N1m tax clearance fee

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The Taraba State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised concerns about what it sees as deliberate efforts to undermine fairness and transparency in the lead-up to the upcoming local government elections.

In a statement released on Sunday by the party chairman, El-Sudi Ibrahim Tukura, APC officials accused the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission (TSIEC) of actions aimed at limiting opposition participation, while appearing to favor the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

A key issue highlighted by the APC is the sharp increase in the tax clearance fee required for election candidates. While the fee was previously set at N100,000 and had increased to N150,000 in the last cycle, it has now been raised dramatically to N1 million. The party describes this hike as arbitrary and targeted.

“The imposition of N1 million as tax clearance fee is an intentional ploy to edge out credible opposition candidates. It is a calculated attempt to frustrate our aspirants financially and create an uneven playing field,” Tukura stated.

The APC also accused TSIEC, led by Chairman Chief Philip Duwe, of failing to uphold its responsibility to organize free and fair elections. The party warned that such actions risk deepening political exclusion within the state.

“We are witnessing a dangerous pattern where key electoral processes are being manipulated to favour the ruling party. This undermines democracy and must not be allowed to stand,” the statement said.

APC leaders further warned the Taraba State government against attempts to impose candidates or manipulate the electoral outcome.

They stressed that a healthy democracy depends on citizens’ ability to freely choose their representatives, especially at the grassroots level.

“This is not just about the APC. It’s about preserving the integrity of our democratic system. If the people lose faith in the electoral process, we all stand to lose,” the party emphasized.

Political analysts familiar with the situation told observers that local government elections in Taraba have often been marred by claims of bias and unfair practices from opposition parties.

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With the election date nearing, the APC has called on civil society groups, election observers, and the general public to stay alert and ensure the elections are conducted fairly.

The party also urged TSIEC to reconsider the increased fee and take steps to restore public trust in the electoral process.

“We expect the electoral body to act in the interest of all Tarabans, not just those in power,” the APC added.

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