The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service, EKIRS, has clarified that the tax notices recently sent to residents and businesses across the state are aimed at improving compliance and not at imposing sanctions.
The Chairman of EKIRS, Olaniran Olatona, gave the clarification on Wednesday while addressing concerns raised by some taxpayers who received the notices.
Olatona said the exercise was part of the Service’s mandate to expand the state’s revenue base and ensure that all taxable persons meet their obligations under the law.
“The objective of these notices is compliance, not sanctions. We are not out to harass or intimidate anyone. Our goal is to enlighten taxpayers, help them understand their obligations, and encourage voluntary payment.”*
According to the Chairman, the notices were generated based on data and records available to the Service, and were designed to bring more people into the tax net in line with global best practices.
He further assured that EKIRS would adopt a taxpayer-friendly approach, with help desks and support channels opened to guide those who need clarification or assistance with payment plans.
“Revenue generated goes directly into the development of Ekiti State — in education, healthcare, infrastructure and security,”* Olatona added. *“When everyone pays their fair share, government can do more for the people.”*
The Chairman urged residents and business owners to see the notices as an opportunity to regularize their tax status rather than a threat, stressing that the Service remains committed to transparency, fairness and engagement.
He called on stakeholders, including market associations, professional bodies and community leaders, to partner with EKIRS in sensitizing their members on the importance of tax payment to the growth of the state.
“Assessment is not the same thing as enforcement. If a taxpayer is not comfortable with the tax liability contained in the notice of assessment, there is a lawful stipulated way to seek a review.
“We still invite them for discussions, review their records and even reduce assessments where the evidence supports their claims.
“Many people say they paid ₦80,000 last year and are now being asked to pay ₦180,000, it is because we now have more comprehensive data than before.
“The law provides several layers of review and even avenues for appeal. We are more interested in helping businesses grow than in bringing them down because a thriving business benefits both the taxpayer and the state.
“We wanted to know whether our revenue could grow without blocking roads, sealing shops or using coercive measures. More than one year later, revenue has continued to increase.
“That tells us the system is working and taxpayers are responding positively to a transparent and efficient tax administration.
“We are always willing to review any assessment where genuine evidence is presented. Our goal is not to punish taxpayers but to ensure fairness, equity and compliance in accordance with the law”.