By correspondent in Lokoja.
The Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) has urged citizens who have yet to fulfill their tax obligations to do so, emphasizing that prompt tax payment is crucial for the development of the state.
In a statement made in Lokoja on Thursday, Alhaji Sule Salihu Enehe, Chairman of KGIRS, highlighted the importance of paying taxes on time to enable the government to provide essential infrastructure for the people.
He explained that timely tax payments would empower Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration to deliver vital services, including quality education, healthcare, road construction, and water projects, all of which directly impact the citizens’ lives.
“When you declare your income and pay taxes on time, the government gains the financial strength needed to execute meaningful projects that benefit the people of Kogi,” said Enehe.
He pointed to projects such as the Zone 8 Roundabout – Barrack – Zango – GYB Junction Road, and the Zone 8 Roundabout – CBN – High Court Road, as well as the state’s commitment to covering WAEC, JAMB, and BECE exam fees for public school students. These are examples of what citizens’ taxes can achieve, according to the chairman.
“If we all commit to paying taxes on time, the government will be able to fund more impactful projects for the benefit of the people,” he added.
Enehe also issued a stern warning to illegal revenue collectors, stating that anyone caught engaging in such activities would face legal consequences.
“It is a crime to collect revenue that belongs to the state,” he said. “KGIRS is the only legally recognized body responsible for collecting taxes and revenue for Kogi State. No unions or associations are authorized to do so. Those caught will be prosecuted, and several individuals are already facing legal action for violating this law.”
