The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Arthur-Jarvis Archibong, has accused the state government of using tax authorities to target his privately owned university because of his political ambition.
Archibong, who is the founder of Arthur Jarvis University, made the allegation while speaking with journalists in Calabar on Friday. He claimed that officials of the state’s tax agency had been directed to carry out an audit of the university over alleged Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax issues, describing the action as politically motivated rather than a normal tax enforcement exercise.
According to him, the university has never received financial support from the Cross River State Government since it was established. He questioned why the government was now focusing on the institution, saying it was unfair for authorities to mount pressure on a school that has contributed to education and job creation in the state.
The PDP candidate alleged that the tax investigation is part of a wider attempt to weaken opposition politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections. He linked the development to the recent marking of the residence of his running mate, Alphonsus Eba, for demolition, insisting that both actions were aimed at intimidating members of the opposition.
Archibong said Arthur Jarvis University currently employs more than 500 workers and has awarded scholarships to over 300 students. He added that unlike private universities in some other states that receive government grants and infrastructural support, his institution has operated without any assistance from the state government.
He warned that any action capable of disrupting the activities of the university would affect not only him but also hundreds of workers, students and their families who depend on the institution.
As of the time of filing this report, the Cross River State Government and the relevant tax authorities had not issued any official response to the allegations made by the PDP governorship candidate.
— Boki Blog Africa