We’ll surely recover all revenue due to Oyo, Awakan vows

Executive Chairman of Oyo State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Olufemi Awakan, has assured that he and his team would ensure the recovery of all internal revenue due to the state.

He however pointed out that it was necessary there was timely payment of taxes by residents.

Awakan, while outlining his commitment to service to newsmen in Ibadan on Saturday, promised to enhance the state’s revenue generation efforts, and praised the leadership of Gov. Seyi Makinde.

He commended Gov. Makinde for his exemplary governance, stating: “I commend Gov. 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.”

Awakan pointed out that the governor’s support has been unwavering since he assumed 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.

”I appreciate the people of Oyo State for taking up the task of paying their taxes 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 affluent members of the community to do the needful.

“I appeal to the rich and those who are well-to-do to pay their taxes as and when due next year.”

He further said: “There will be no room for evasion, as we will collaborate closely with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board (JTB) to collect all due revenues.”

Awakan assured residents that the board would operate within legal bounds, stating “Be rest assured, we will adhere to the laws 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, the revenue generating body head 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 collaborate with these tribunals to ensure compliance and accountability.”