EKIRS Debunks Viral Video on Alleged Arbitrary Tax Assessment in Igede

The Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS) has dismissed as misleading a viral social media video alleging that it arbitrarily increased the tax assessment of a furniture maker, Mr Raimi Yinusa Olaide, in Igede-Ekiti.

The Service, in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Head of Communications and Liaison, Mr Ayomiposi Ayedun, said the video falsely portrayed a 2025 Notice of Assessment showing an income tax assessment of ₦150,000 and a development levy of ₦20,000 as an arbitrary tax increase imposed by the state government.

According to the statement, EKIRS immediately investigated the matter by visiting the taxpayer's business premises after the video surfaced online.

It said Mr Olaide confirmed during the visit that the video was recorded and circulated without his knowledge or consent by a passerby who had stopped near his workshop to repair a vehicle.

The taxpayer explained that their discussion on the prevailing economic situation was secretly recorded and later posted on social media.

The statement further noted that Mr Olaide confirmed he was not subjected to any arbitrary or unlawful tax assessment, adding that he only intended to exercise his statutory right to seek a review of the assessment based on his actual income and business circumstances.

EKIRS explained that under the relevant tax laws, any taxpayer who considers an assessment excessive has the right to file an objection with the Executive Chairman of the Service within 30 days of receiving the assessment.

It added that every objection is reviewed fairly and adjustments are made where justified.

The Service advised taxpayers to channel complaints through the established administrative procedures rather than social media, assuring that its offices remain open to provide clarification, review assessments where necessary and ensure fair treatment for all taxpayers.

EKIRS urged members of the public to disregard the misleading claims contained in the viral video and obtain tax-related information only through its official communication channels.

The Service reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fairness, professionalism and a taxpayer-friendly revenue administration aimed at promoting economic growth and improving the ease of doing business in Ekiti State.