By CHUKWUMA OFILI
Abia CAN Appeals to Governor Over Controversial Taxation Policy on Church Signposts
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Abia State chapter, has voiced strong opposition to a state government policy that imposes taxes on church signposts, urging the immediate reversal of the decision. The Christian body expressed its disappointment in a letter dated October 22, 2024, lamenting that Abia, known as “God’s own state,” is the only state in Nigeria where churches are taxed for their signposts.
In the letter, signed by the State CAN Chairman, Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma, and the Secretary, Rev. Dr. Francis E. Okere, the association appealed to Governor Alex Otti to reconsider the tax policy. CAN warned that continuing with the policy could lead Christians in Abia to view the government as anti-Church.
The letter reads: “As a Christian and God’s own state, it is regrettable that Abia State is the only state in the whole federation that is taxing churches on their signposts.”
CAN also requested a roundtable discussion with state leaders to address the issue amicably and seek a resolution. “We passionately plead with Your Excellency to urgently look into this matter and possibly rescind the policy to avoid compelling the body of Christ in the state from seeing the regime as anti-Church.”
The association reaffirmed its support and prayers for the state government, while hoping for a swift and favorable response to their plea.