The executive chairman of the Oyo State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Olufemi Awakan, has pledged to recover all internal revenue owed to the state, highlighting the importance of timely tax payments from residents.
Awakan, told Tribune Online on Saturday, that he his commitment to improving the state’s revenue generation efforts, while commending Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership.
He praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his outstanding leadership in Oyo State, adding, “His dedication to improving the state shows his genuine concern for the residents.”
He emphasized that the governor’s support has been consistent since he took office, stating, “Since I became the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue in November 2021, the governor has never interfered with the board’s operations.”
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“On my first day, he encouraged me to ‘do the right thing,’ and he has consistently acknowledged the efforts of our team.”
Awakan expressed optimism about the future, stating, “If past leaders had shared this same dedication, Oyo State could have achieved even greater strides.”
He recognised the pressure the board faces in generating revenue and expressed his appreciation for the people of Oyo State, stating, “I am grateful to the people of Oyo State for fulfilling their tax obligations on time. However, many still need to do their part.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Awakan warned of potential challenges due to upcoming reforms in the internally generated revenue sector.
He urged affluent community members, stating, “I appeal to the wealthy and those who are well-off to pay their taxes promptly next year.”
He further emphasised, “There will be no room for tax evasion, as we will work closely with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board to collect all due revenues.”
Awakan assured residents that the board would operate within legal boundaries, stating, “Rest assured, we will adhere to the law and not impose charges beyond what is legally required.”
He called for cooperation, adding, “Let us work together with the government. We can see the infrastructural development happening in the state, and we can also see that workers’ salaries are being paid on time.”
Highlighting the broader impact of tax compliance, he warned, “When the government is unable to pay salaries, it affects everyone.”
He encouraged citizens to support the government, stating, “I urge everyone to support the government so it can fulfill its responsibilities. We can’t continue to place all the burdens on the government as responsible citizens.”
Awakan reminded residents that there are penalties for tax defaulters and that the government is actively working to establish more tax tribunals.
He added, “We will collaborate with these tribunals to ensure compliance and accountability.”
