Private primary and secondary schools in Ekiti state, western Nigeria is currently totally shut down as the proprietors began a 3-day warning strike.
Reports say they are protesting the =N=1000 education development levy or tax...placed on EACH PUPIL...in all the privates schools in the state.
Wait a minute, did you say 'EACH PUPIL'???? Are minors supposed to pay levy (or tax...all nah the same) ? mmm let me continue....
This move, considered to be 'multiple taxation' by the state government prompted the school owners to stage the protest. They request that the government either remove the levy or face total shut-down of schools.
Please ain't the government supposed to offer 'Free education' to pupils, build more schools or support and monitor private schools so that they don't take undue advantage of the citizens?.
The Ekiti State government while reacting to situation, through the Commissioner for Information, Lanre Ogunsuyi, admitted that the government indeed issued the levy but asked for understanding from the proprietors.
Understanding....in these hard times with harsh economic situation?
Levy imposed on school children?
Are not the parents of these children already taxed from their various professions?
Are the private schools not already taxed?
Are there no other sources to generate revenue in the state?...
By the way...what is the money for?