APC raises alarm over very high tax clearance fee

The All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter in Taraba State has expressed concern over what it called a willful attempt to erode justice and transparency in the lead-up to the upcoming local government elections.

APC leaders accused the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission, or TSIEC, of taking actions that could limit opposition participation while purportedly favoring the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, or PDP, in a statement provided to reporters in Taraba on Sunday by the party chairman, El-Sudi Ibrahim Tukura.

The significant rise in the tax clearance price that candidates must pay is at the heart of the APC’s grievance. The party asserts that the cost has been increased to an unprecedented N1 million, a decision they characterize as targeted and capricious. Level after being N100,000 in prior elections and N150,000 in the most recent cycle.

“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,” he said.

The party further alleged that TSIEC, under the leadership of Chairman Chief Philip Duwe, is failing in its duty to conduct a free and fair election and warned that such practices could deepen political disenfranchisement in 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 read.

APC leaders also cautioned the Taraba State government against any attempt to impose candidates or influence the outcome of the elections.

They emphasized that democracy can only thrive when citizens are given the freedom to choose their leaders, 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 warned.

Political observers who spoke with Daily Post noted that local government elections in Taraba are not new, as opposition parties have consistently raised alarms over alleged electoral bias and lack of fairness.

With the election date approaching, the APC is calling on civil society organisations, election monitors, and the public to remain vigilant and ensure that the polls are conducted transparently.

The party also urged TSIEC to reconsider the fee hike and take concrete steps to rebuild public confidence.

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