Ekiti State Government has debunked insinuations of imposition of multiple taxation or introduction of new ones on people in the State.
Speaking during a meeting with the Management of the State Internal Revenue Service led by the Agency’s Chairman, Mr. Olaniran Olatona, the state Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun explained that the remarkable growth in revenue generation is a direct consequence of blocking loopholes and deploying technology for the collection of revenue as well as ensure the money collected is judiciously spent on development.
Olatunbosun who described the purported protest as misguided, stressed the commitment of the State Government to ensuring that the people pay fair tax, adding that the State’s tax system has been designed to be progressive, transparent and neutral. Noting that the Best of Judgment (BOJ) assessment remains the most reasonable and globally accepted tax practice that can help ensure that all eligible taxpayers contribute fairly to Ekiti State’s economic development, Olatunbosun said it only applies in cases where taxpayers fail to submit accurate and complete financial records as required by law.
The Commissioner advised taxpayers to seek clarification in any of the EKIRS offices, and take advantage of available dispute resolution mechanisms to reduce misunderstandings and misgivings.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Olaniran Olatona reiterated that commitment of his agency to promotion of equity, accountability, and sustainable economic development through a simple, transparent, just and fair tax system.
According to him, any taxpayer who disagrees with a BOJ assessment has the right to object and provide supporting financial records for a review, stressing that the agency remains open to dialogue and fair resolution of disputes through appropriate channels.
He said, “We run an open door policy and my office is open to attend to complaint and enquires round the clock. We are indeed for the development of the state and we will continue to sensitize the people on the essence of paying tax while our officials would be humane but firm”
