The Coalition of Associations of Private Schools (CAPS) in Edo State has expressed its appreciation for the state government’s prompt action in addressing recent concerns regarding increased tax levies imposed on private schools by the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS). The commendation follows protests staged by private school owners on April 11th, triggered by the tax hikes.
In a statement released to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, CAPS, representing a unified voice of private educational institutions in the state, lauded the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue and review the tax assessments.
The statement was jointly signed by prominent figures within the coalition, including Dr. Osagie Erhunmwunse of the Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED), Dr. Lemmy Russell of the National Association of Private Schools (NAPPS), Dr. Oyakhire Abdulwasiu of the Association of Model Islamic Schools (AMIS), and Dr. Christy Egbune of the Association of Private School Owners in Nigeria (APSON).
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The coalition emphasized that the government’s decision to allow private schools the opportunity to challenge and seek a review of the tax assessments demonstrated a commitment to fairness and inclusive governance. “This,” the statement read, “reflected a commendable openness to dialogue and inclusive governance.”
CAPS further asserted that these developments reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to the growth of education, equitable taxation, and the creation of a supportive environment for private educational institutions within Edo State.
“We commend the visionary leadership of Gov. Monday Okpebolo for demonstrating responsiveness, transparency, and a strong commitment to the education sector,” the statement declared. “We also appreciate the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Education and the EIRS in addressing these pressing issues.”
Looking ahead, the Coalition affirmed its commitment to continued partnership with the government to maintain high educational standards and contribute significantly to the overall development of Edo State.
This collaborative approach signals a positive step towards resolving the tax concerns and fostering a stronger relationship between the government and the private education sector.
