By Fatima Muraina

The chairman of the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS), Mr. Bayo Rojugbokan, has declared that there is no multiple taxation imposed on the people in the state.

Rojugbokan made this known in an interview with The Hope in Akure, yesterday.

He stated that double taxation is not permitted in Nigeria and advised individuals with specific concerns to present their cases for clarification.

He explained that the state levies standard taxes, noting that certain fees, such as business premises fees, are collected by the state, while others, such as shop fees, fall under the jurisdiction of local governments.

“There are fees charged by local governments, and there are those that belong to the state. Business premises fees are collected by the state. Anyone conducting business in another state is required to pay the fee to the state,” he said.

He urged people to seek clarification regarding any payments they are required to make and to verify them with the relevant agencies.

According to him, the ODIRS follows due process before sealing the premises of tax defaulters.

“But we don’t lock shops arbitrarily. There is a legal process. We obtain a court injunction before locking a shop. ODIRS will not shut down any business without a court order,” he stated.

He encouraged business owners to approach tax officers for explanations if they are unclear about any charges.

“Everybody knows that double taxation is not allowed in Nigeria. If they don’t know, they should be informed. However, if they have specific cases, they should bring them forward for clarification.