Southwest CAN Sues For Peace Over VAT War

By Ayodele Oni

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the South-west has proferred way forward in the ongoing legal tussle over the collection of Value Added Tax, (VAT) between some States and Federal Government.

The CAN leaders who ended their meeting in Ibadan, Oyo state, also called on Governors in the zone to ensure the protection of its social, economic and political interests.

In a communiqué issued at the end of its third quarter meeting, the Christian body advised that the governors should pursue the realisation of true federalism to create a more just and equitable federation.

The communiqué was signed by the Southwest CAN Director of Legal and Public Affairs, Sir Steve Alabi, Rev. Luke Bamigboye, Zonal Secretary and Rev. Fr. Raphael Osegboun CAN Zonal Chairman.

These, the Association demanded should be done in a secure and united Nigeria.

According to the Association,  the on-going legal tussle and political debates on the issue of VAT collection either by States or by the Federal Government could escalate tension in the country.

It demanded that political, economic leaders and other stakeholders should handle the issue dispassionately and without recourse to emotion and political manipulation.

“We appreciate the commitment of the political leadership in the Southwest to the enthronement of peace and security in spite of threats and challenges from internal and external purveyors of violence and destabilisation.

“We, therefore, enjoin Governors in the zone to continue to do everything within their powers to safeguard the lives and property of the people in their charge.”