The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned the recent decision of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to introduce new levies on social events, describing the move as anti-people and a fresh burden on struggling residents.
According to information obtained by Legal Observer News, the state government has approved a levy of ₦35,000 for events such as burials, weddings, and chieftaincy ceremonies, while ₦25,000 is to be paid for naming ceremonies, birthday parties, wake-keeps, engagements, and graduation events.
The new policy, contained in an official document reportedly issued by the government, has sparked widespread criticism, with the opposition APC warning that it would worsen the already difficult economic situation faced by citizens.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Olawale Sadare, the APC urged Governor Makinde to immediately withdraw what it described as an “entertainment tax” that targets ordinary people simply trying to celebrate life’s milestones.
“We call on Governor Makinde to rescind his decision to compel residents to pay additional taxes before hosting any social event in any part of the state,” Sadare said. “The introduction of entertainment levies at this time is like pushing citizens to the wall. The economy is already biting hard, and people are only trying to find joy through family and community gatherings.”
Sadare added that civil servants, artisans, business owners, and commercial transport operators are already overwhelmed by existing taxes imposed by the state government. He warned that further taxation under the guise of event levies could fuel public frustration and economic hardship.
“The government should show empathy, not increase the suffering of its people,” he added. “We therefore urge the state government to suspend this policy immediately.”
The Oyo State government has yet to officially respond to the APC’s statement as public reactions continue to trail the controversial levies.
