PORT HARCOURT: Residents and traders were left shocked after some tax collectors allegedly pushed down pots of food belonging to a local mama put vendor over delayed tax payment. The emotional incident, which reportedly happened in a busy market area, drew reactions from passersby who described the action as harsh and unnecessary. WATCH FULL VIDEO HERE…
According to eyewitnesses, the woman had pleaded for more time to settle the payment before the situation escalated. Videos and photos circulating online showed scattered food on the ground while the distressed food seller cried and begged people around for help.
Many market women who witnessed the incident condemned the action, saying the vendor depended on the business to feed her children and survive the country’s current economic hardship. Some traders claimed the woman had been struggling with low sales and rising food prices in recent weeks.
The incident has also draw the attention of many Nigerians criticizing the methods sometimes used by revenue agents during enforcement exercises. Others argued that while taxes are important for government revenue, there should be more humane ways of handling small business owners who are already battling inflation and poor economic conditions.
Similar incidents involving traders and task force officials have been reported in different parts of the country over the years. In some cases, goods were seized or destroyed during disputes over levies and market payments, often leading to public outrage.
As reactions continue online, many people are calling on authorities to investigate the matter and ensure that enforcement officers treat citizens with dignity and respect while carrying out their duties. Watch full video here…