Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan.
The Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale Awakan has vowed to ensure the recovery of all internal revenue due to the state, emphasizing the necessity of timely tax payments from residents.
Awakan in an interview, outlined his commitment to enhancing the state’s revenue generation efforts while praising the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.
He commended Governor Makinde for his exemplary governance, stating, “I commend Governor Seyi Makinde for his exemplary leadership in governing Oyo State.
“His commitment to leaving the state better than he found it reflects his deep care for the residents.”
He pointed out that the governor’s support has been unwavering since he took office, noting, “Since I assumed the role of Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue in November 2021, the governor has never interfered in the board’s operations.”
“On my first day, he encouraged me to ‘do the right thing,’ and he has consistently acknowledged the efforts of our team.”
Expressing optimism about the future, Awakan remarked, “If past leaders had shared this same dedication, Oyo State would have made even greater strides.”
He acknowledged the pressure the board faces in generating revenue but expressed gratitude to the people of the State, saying, ”I appreciate the people of Oyo State for taking up the task of paying their tax as and when due. However, many are still not doing what they need to do.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Awakan warned of potential challenges due to upcoming reforms in the internally generated revenue sector.
He urged the affluent members of the community, stating, “I appeal to the rich and those who are well-to-do to pay their taxes as and when due next year.”
He further emphasised, “There will be no room for evasion, as we will collaborate 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 bounds, sating, “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 going on in the state, and we can also see that workers’ salaries are being paid promptly.”
Highlighting the broader impact of tax compliance, he warned, “When the government does not pay salaries, it will affect everybody.”
He encouraged citizens to support the government, stating, “I am appealing to us to support the government so that it can also do the needful. We can’t continue to put all the responsibilities on the shoulders of the government as good citizens.”
Awakan reminded residents that there are penalties for tax defaulters and that the government is actively working to establish more tax tribunals.
“We will in collaborate with these tribunals to ensure compliance and accountability.” He stated.
