By Merit Ibe
The United Allied Spare Parts Dealers Association( UASPDA) has tasked traders in the country on prompt payment of taxes to state and federal governments to avoid friction in business.
President of the association, Simon Uzoetue, who made the remark during an address to mark his first 100 days in office as the chief executive officer of UASPDA machine parts plaza, located inside the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, added that payment of taxes as when due will prove they are responsible and law abiding citizens.
At the event, projects completed during the first 100 days of his team’s assumption of office were commissioned.
While enumerating the achievements of the Simon Uzoetue-led administration, general secretary, Uzochukwu Mmaduike, explained that 17 projects were successfully completed during the period, which include solar powered electrification of the entire market, erection of security fence walls, new police post building, evacuation and renovation of waste dump, among others.
He said: “Todays meeting is a double event because we will use it to achieve two purposes. First, it is our second general meeting by this new executives since we took over power in June. Second, we are observing a low key celebration of our 100 days in office.
“Let me start by advising every trader to please endeavour to pay his or her personal income tax promptly and regularly to the state and federal governments. That is the only way to enjoy doing business in Nigeria very freely and without any form of friction and harassment. It also shows that you are a responsible law abiding citizen of Nigeria.”
The traders who were elated at their performance, expressed excitement over the achievements during the short period. Others however, complained of poor publicity which is why they didn’t hear about the meeting on time.
In his remarks, vice president of UASPDA, Arinze Enyibuaku, acknowledged and appreciated members for the return of peace and unity.
According to him, “this massive crowd in today’s meeting is a clear evidence that peace and unity has fully returned to our market. To add to this, some of you have donated willingly to support us. With this cooperation among us, we promise to achieve more and make greater progress.”