Taxable people in Ekiti State have been advised to take advantage of the tax reforms in the State to ensure timely payment of their taxes.
Chairman of the State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS), Mr. Olaniran Olatona who made the call while featuring on a simulcast programme on all the radio stations in the State and beyond tagged Ekiti L’oni/Ekiti Today, explained that the introduction of the use of USSD code *5229# was designed to make paying taxes easier.
Reiterating the commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration to making life easier for people in the State, Mr. Olatona noted that the administration has successfully bolstered the trust of the people in government with its policies, programmes and achievements since inception, adding that the government remains committed to rapidly developing the State and seeing to the welfare of residents.
He emphasized that all stakeholders must however be ready to contribute their quota in efforts to develop the State by paying their taxes regularly, adding that the taxes paid would empower government to perform its responsibilities in all spheres including road construction/maintenance, healthcare facilities, education and other infrastructural developments.
Olatona assured that officials of the Revenue Services have been well trained and directed to be civil but firm, stressing the need to treat them with courtesy deserving of public servants.
Explaining the reason for locking up tax defaulters’ business premises at dawn, Olatona said that the early morning raids were to avert avoidable conflicts, adding that the tactics serve as last resort usually a month after tax payers have been served notice of payment due.
According to him, people with complaints or who need further clarifications should not hesitate to visit the Head office of the State Internal Revenue, adding that attacks on Tax Officers would however not be tolerated and offenders would be prosecuted and sanctioned accordingly.
He said “we run an open door policy and everyone is free to come to the Internal Revenue Service office on any issue relating to tax payments. I also want to strongly advise that cases of excessive or irregular charges should be promptly reported while payments receipts issued by tax officials should be verified if there is any doubt. We are here to serve you, I can assure you that we are determined to succeed”.
Packaged by Mayowa Owogbade
