Edo Revenue Service Engages Stakeholders On Tax Compliance
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has intensified efforts to boost tax compliance with series of meetings with key stakeholders over its commitment to transparent tax administration.
Executive Director, Income Tax, Deacon Idiake Patrick, who led the engagements has so far met with the leadership of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) and the Edo State Inter-State Wood & Timber Shade Dealers Association.
At the meeting with NAPPS, the association’s Chairman, Dr Lemy Russel, sought clarity on tax obligations, to which Deacon Idiake replied that the state would regulate the education sector’s tax obligations fairly.
“The goal is to ensure fairness and accuracy in taxation while boosting state revenue,” he stated.
Present at the meeting were Mrs Osariemen Ogedegbe, Director of Income Tax (PAYE), and Mr Musa Benjamin, Director of Income Tax (Direct Assessment/WHT).
Deacon Idiake and Mr Benjamin also engaged the Edo State Inter-State Wood & Timber Shade Dealers Association at the EIRS Corporate Headquarters, focusing on categorising members for proper tax assessment.
Association Chairman, Mr Ayemwenre Solomon, who led the delegation expressed concerns over tax categorisation and sought clarity on payments.
Deacon Idiake who explained that tax obligations are based on income levels urged the association to weed out members attempting to evade taxes.
“Fairness is our priority, but tax evasion will not be tolerated,” he warned.
The meetings underscored the agency’s determination to enhance revenue collection while ensuring fairness.
