Butchers operating at the Amosun Central Abattoir in Akinyele Local Government Area have raised concerns over a recent tax increment imposed by the Oyo State Government. The butchers claim that the new levy will significantly impact their operations and livelihoods.
In 2018, under the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, all butchers in Ibadan were mandated to relocate to the newly established central abattoir in Amosun village. This move aimed to centralize meat processing and ensure hygienic practices. However, over time, some markets have reverted to their original locations.
The butchers have been managing the challenges associated with the relocation. However, this month, representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture delivered a letter indicating an additional charge of ₦2,500 per cow slaughtered, on top of the existing ₦3,000 fee, bringing the total to ₦5,500 monthly. The butchers have expressed strong opposition to this increase, citing a lack of support from the current government.
Alhaji Wahab Olayiwola, the State Chairman of the Butchers Association, acknowledged that the government has not engaged with the butchers to address their concerns. He assured that discussions are ongoing and urged his members to resume work, emphasizing that the matter is being resolved.
Alhaji Olayiwola criticized the current administration for neglecting their welfare. He recalled how the Ajimobi government supported them during the relocation process by providing a ₦40 million loan to boost their business, ₦10 million as a cash gift, and buses to facilitate the transportation of their goods. In contrast, he lamented that the present government has not provided any support but instead imposed additional financial burdens on them.
Similarly, Alhaji Adegoke Lateef, the State Secretary of the Butchers Association, confirmed that the government has scheduled a meeting to hear their grievances. He mentioned that retired Commissioner of Police Sunday Odukoya, the Executive Assistant on Security to the Governor, communicated on behalf of the government, assuring that no further actions would be taken by the Ministry of Agriculture until discussions are concluded.
The butchers are hopeful that the upcoming meeting with the governor will lead to a resolution that addresses their concerns and allows them to continue their trade without undue financial burdens.
