The chairman of Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS), Mr. Olaniran Olatona, has addressed growing concerns about the agency’s tax collection practices.
In a recent interview, Olatona assured the public that EKIRS follows all legal procedures and remains committed to a transparent, equitable, and efficient taxation system.
He emphasized that there is no room for arbitrary taxation in the state, and all taxes collected are rooted in the law.
“There is no tax we collect that lacks a legal foundation,” Mr. Olatona stated, reaffirming the legitimacy of the agency’s operations.
He also clarified that individuals who feel they are being unfairly taxed have the legal right to contest these taxes within 30 days.
If taxpayers believe they have been wronged, they can present supporting evidence or seek redress in court, Olatona added.
Since his appointment as EKIRS chairman in 2022, Olatona revealed that no individual has successfully proven any wrongdoing in the agency’s operations.
Olatona’s statements come in response to public complaints about the state’s tax practices, with some alleging unfair or excessive taxation.
The EKIRS chairman stressed that the agency operates based on three key principles: legality, economic viability, and accounting fairness.
In addition to clarifying the legal framework of taxation, Olatona addressed concerns regarding the enforcement of tax payments.
He explained that enforcement actions, such as the closure of shops or confiscation of goods, are taken only as a last resort after multiple notices have been issued to defaulters.
“Once we have given sufficient time for taxpayers to settle their obligations, and they fail to do so, we are left with no option but to take legal action,” Olatona said.
To avoid unnecessary confrontations, Olatona explained that shops are sealed during early hours to ensure the safety of both EKIRS staff and taxpayers.
“We do this to prevent any physical confrontations. Our priority is the safety of everyone involved,” he emphasized.
Despite these enforcement measures, Olatona assured the public that EKIRS is mindful of the current economic challenges facing the people.
The agency has introduced policies aimed at lessening the burden on taxpayers, especially those struggling to meet tax obligations.
“Some of the most vulnerable groups, like elderly citizens, are exempt from certain charges,” Olatona explained.
He also highlighted that the agency assesses each case individually to ensure fairness and prevent undue hardship.
One of the most pressing concerns raised by Ekiti taxpayers has been the issue of multiple taxation, with some feeling that different levels of government are collecting overlapping taxes.
Olatona responded by explaining that the situation arises because different tiers of government have the legal authority to collect specific taxes.
However, he expressed optimism about the tax reforms being led by President Bola Tinubu, which aim to streamline tax collection and reduce the burden of multiple taxes on citizens.
Once the federal reforms are enacted, Olatona believes they will benefit taxpayers, especially those with low incomes.
“Our goal is to reduce overlapping taxes and ease the burden on our citizens,” Olatona stated.
He also pointed to EKIRS’ use of technology as an essential tool in simplifying the tax payment process.
Citizens of Ekiti can now make their tax payments online, eliminating the need for physical visits to tax offices.
“We are making the process as convenient as possible for taxpayers. They can now make payments from the comfort of their homes,” Olatona added.
Along with online payment options, EKIRS has launched sensitization campaigns to educate the public on the importance of tax compliance.
Through these campaigns, the agency hopes to foster a better understanding of why taxes are essential for the state’s development.
“We want to make sure that everyone understands the necessity of taxes in building the infrastructure and services that benefit the people,” Olatona said.
In response to claims that taxpayers do not see the impact of their contributions, Olatona pointed to ongoing government projects as proof that tax revenue is being put to good use.
“There is no truth in the claim that taxpayers’ money is not being used effectively,” he asserted.
He also pointed out that former governors and even opposition figures have praised the current administration’s efforts in utilizing the funds for development.
For Olatona, the partnership between taxpayers and the government is crucial for the continued growth of Ekiti State.
“Everyone who benefits from government services has a responsibility to contribute,” he said.
He further urged citizens to view tax payment as a constitutional duty and a shared responsibility.
“Those who benefit from roads, hospitals, and other services should pay taxes. Those who evade taxes have no moral right to criticize the government,” Olatona emphasized.
Since Olatona’s appointment, EKIRS has made impressive progress in increasing the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
Revenue has grown from 650 million Naira to 1.6 billion Naira in recent months, signaling the agency’s success in improving tax collection.
Olatona expressed pride in this achievement, noting that the increase in revenue reflects the growing trust and compliance among Ekiti citizens.
The EKIRS chairman concluded by reaffirming the agency’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and efficiency in tax collection.
“We are committed to making the tax process as smooth and fair as possible. We want to continue working together with the people of Ekiti to build a stronger state,” Olatona said.
