The House of Representatives on Thursday unveiled plans to investigate the activities of ride-hailing firms and Information and Communication Technology-enabled transport companies operating in Nigeria including Bolt and Uber on the payment of requisite taxes into government’s coffers as provided by relevant laws.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson.
In his lead debate, Hon. Johnson observed that ICT is often regarded as a strategic tool for achieving success and competitiveness in organizations in the global economy.
“In recent times, ICT has had significant impacts on the way organizations operate, as it offers tremendous opportunities such as storing, processing, retrieving, disseminating and sharing of information.
“The House is aware that Information Communication Technology (ICT) has made transportation business very accessible, cheaper and lucrative especially in the urban areas and at the same time created many job opportunities for unemployed persons as the people’s desire for comfortable ride services have enabled companies such as Bolt and Uber spread widely across the country.
“The House is also aware that many transportation activities now occur through online booking and payments which make the ordering of the services easier and efficient.
“The House is informed that the average weekly earnings of Bolt and Uber drivers are about 60,000 to 120,000 while the companies take off 20% and 25% respectively as commission from the earnings of each driver operating on their platforms.
“The House is cognizant that the companies have benefited from facilities of the Federal Government such as road and security network which grants them ease of doing business, thus they ought to be fully accountable and up to date in tax remittances.
“The House is concerned that as corporate identities, it is not clear whether the companies are fully compliant with the requirements of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, considering that the services are made online,” he noted.
The Ad-hoc is expected to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
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