On Monday, March 4, the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) took decisive action by sealing off several schools, hotels, and hospitals due to tax evasion and failure to file annual tax returns.
Emmanuel Agema, the acting chairman of BIRS, stated that the enforcement exercise was essential to ensure compliance with tax payment for the state’s development. Among the establishments sealed were Emory Specialist Hospital, Vincal Pharmacy, Graceland Suites, City Hospital, Peniel College, ECWA Secondary School, Rose Asase Schools, New Hotel Lucia, and River Side Hotel, all located in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State.
Agema emphasized that the closure of these facilities became necessary as they had consistently failed to file their annual returns and remit due taxes to the state government despite repeated notices and reminders. The warrant to seal the named organizations was issued by the state Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, in accordance with relevant tax laws.
He further reiterated BIRS’s commitment to employing legal measures, including compliance enforcement and regulatory actions, to prevent taxpayers from defaulting on their tax obligations. This action underscores the government’s determination to uphold tax compliance and ensure that all entities contribute their fair share towards the state’s development.
