The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a transparent, fair, and efficient taxation process while addressing misconceptions about its relationship with taxpayers.
The chairman of the agency, Mr. Olaniran Olatona in an interview, emphasized that its operations are guided by law and geared toward promoting mutual understanding and cooperation with the public.
Mr. Olatona outlined the steps taken by the agency to improve tax compliance, ease the burden on taxpayers, and address longstanding issues, such as multiple taxation and enforcement actions.
Reacting to claims of excessive or arbitrary taxation, Mr Olatona stressed that all taxes collected by EKIRS are grounded in law, explaining that taxation operates on three fundamental principles: legal, economic, and accounting.
“There is no tax we collect without a legal basis. We have always emphasised that whoever believes he/she is being unfairly is free to object within 30 days as in the law, and such are free to present their cases with evidence or seek redress in court. Since I assumed office in 2022, no one has been able to prove any wrongdoing in our operations,” he said.
Addressing concerns about the sealing of shops and the confiscation of goods, Mr Olatona explained that enforcement actions are only taken as a last resort after multiple notices have been issued to defaulters.
“We give taxpayers sufficient time to respond to their obligations, unfortunately, some choose to ignore these notices, forcing us to act in line with the law. Sealing shops early in the morning is a measure to avoid physical confrontations and ensure the safety of our staff as well as our customers- the taxpayers.” Olatona submitted.
He added that the agency’s autonomy allows it to operate with flexibility while ensuring efficiency in its revenue collection mandate.
The EKIRS chairman emphasized that the agency is mindful of the economic challenges faced by taxpayers and has implemented policies to alleviate their burdens.
“We have been considerate in our approach, especially for individuals and businesses affected by the tough economic climate. For example, we grant concessions to struggling business owners and exempt elderly citizens from certain charges where applicable. We assess each case individually to ensure fairness.” he said.
On the issue of multiple taxations, Mr Olatona clarified that it arises from the revenue collectable by different tiers of government under the law, just as he expressed optimism about the ongoing tax reforms spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, which aim to streamline tax collection and reduce the burden on taxpayers.
“The reform being proposed at the federal level will address the issue of overlapping taxes. Once signed into law, it will greatly benefit taxpayers, in particular those with low income” he stated.
To improve relations with taxpayers, the EKIRS boss noted that the agency has leveraged technology to simplify the tax payment process. Ekiti people can now make payments online from the comfort of their homes, adding that sensitization campaigns have also been launched to educate the public on their tax obligations and the benefits of compliance.
“We are making tax payments as convenient as possible and educating people on why taxes are necessary for development. This has fostered better understanding and compliance,” Mr. Olatona explained.
Mr. Olatona, however, dismissed claims that taxpayers are not seeing the impact of their contributions, acknowledging the ongoing infrastructural projects and empowerment initiatives in the state as evidence of the government’s prudent use of tax revenue.
“It’s disingenuous for anyone to say the government is not doing anything with taxpayers’ money. If past governors and opposition figures are commending the current administration for its achievements, then it’s clear that the funds are being used effectively,” he argued.
The EKIRS chairman also urged taxpayers to fulfil their obligations, stressing that taxation is a constitutional duty and a shared responsibility.
“Everyone who benefits from government services has a role to play. Those who evade taxes have no moral right to criticize the government,” he stated.
He disclosed that the agency has made significant strides in improving the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), achieving a remarkable increase from 650 million Naira to 1.6 billion Naira recently.
Mr Olatona reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to fairness and transparency, calling on citizens to view the tax process as a partnership aimed at fostering Ekiti State’s growth and development.
