By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Nigerian government has implemented a mortuary tax requiring N40 to be paid for corpses not buried within 24 hours. Mr. Emmanuel Nnamani, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS), stated that this tax is intended “to encourage prompt burials rather than generate revenue.”
He emphasized that it is not a new initiative, as it has been part of state laws for years and is designed to “discourage extended stays in mortuaries.” Nnamani clarified that the tax is “not a burden on the deceased’s family” but an indirect charge on mortuary owners, who are responsible for making the payments.
The tax accumulates daily, which could lead to significant fees if the corpse remains in the mortuary for an extended period.
Source: Ibom Focus