From News Editor
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Services (EKIRS), Olaniran Olatona has debunked the allegations making the round that the organisation was collecting arbitrary tax from traders in Ado Ekiti.
Olatona made the clarification during a meeting with some aggrieved traders at the Ojido Market in Ado Ekiti.
He noted that government through the service had no intention of inflicting any pain on citizens, saying the estimated pattern of charging traders known as Best of Judgment (BOJ) which was a major concern, was lawful in revenue administration.
EKIRS Chair noted that BOJ assessments are applied in cases where taxpayers fail to submit accurate and complete financial records as required by law adding that the approach aligns with globally accepted tax practices and helps ensure that all eligible taxpayers contribute fairly to economic development of the state.
Olatona noted that in the case where any taxpayers observed an over charge, such taxpayer has the right to object within 30 days of receiving assessment and provide supporting financial records for a review.
He noted that the EKIRS remains open to dialogue and fair resolution of disputes through appropriate channels citing examples of organisations and traders have enjoyed drastic downward review after approaching her office.
He disclosed that the organisation was planning to come up with stakeholders engagement to address concerns, clarify misconceptions, and improve tax compliance processes adding that it would work with business owners, professionals, and industry groups to ensure that tax compliance is simple, transparent, and fair.
He added: “We encourage all taxpayers to engage with EKIRS offices, seek clarification, and take advantage of available dispute resolution mechanisms to reduce misunderstandings and misgivings.
“The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service remains steadfast in its mission to promote equity, accountability, and sustainable economic development through a just and fair tax system”.
