A civil rights organisation, the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has strongly criticised a proposed property tax bill before the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, describing it as harsh and unfriendly to the people.
In a statement issued on Thursday, CHRAN argued that the bill, if passed into law, would place additional financial pressure on residents already grappling with rising living costs and economic uncertainty.
The group expressed concern that the proposed tax does not adequately consider the income realities of ordinary citizens, particularly low-income earners and retirees who own modest properties.
According to CHRAN, imposing such levies at a time of widespread economic hardship could worsen poverty levels across the state.
CHRAN further called on lawmakers to suspend deliberations on the bill and engage in wider consultations with stakeholders, including civil society groups, community leaders, and residents, before taking any final decision.
The organisation urged the state government to explore alternative revenue options that would not disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, stressing that policies should prioritise social welfare and economic relief.
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has yet to respond officially to the concerns raised by the rights group.