Rivers Speaker Questions Commissioner Nominee's Tax Status

During a screening exercise at the Rivers State House of Assembly, Speaker Martin Amaewhul challenged Commissioner nominee Chariti Deemua about her tax clearance certificate. Amaewhul noted that Deemua's documentation appeared outdated and questioned whether she had paid taxes in recent years.

Deemua admitted she had not paid taxes since 2018, explaining that her political involvement did not equate to stable employment, thus exempting her from tax obligations. This response led to further inquiries from Amaewhul regarding Deemua's previous engagements with the government, specifically her role on the local government caretaker committee.

Deemua confirmed her service on the committee for three months but stated she did not receive a salary during that time. Amaewhul pointed out that receiving any payment would imply income, which would necessitate tax clearance.

The session concluded with Deemua apologizing and indicating she would revisit the tax documentation issue, while Amaewhul expressed dissatisfaction with her lack of tax compliance.