Entertainment
Iyabo Ojo risks jail term over N18M Tax
The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to popular Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, giving her a seven-day ultimatum to settle a staggering sum of N18,640,092.00 as personal income tax or face potential imprisonment.
In a letter addressed to the actress, the Lagos government alleged that she owes N7,376,000.00 in taxes for the year 2022, in addition to N11,264,092 in back taxes from the 2021 tax year.
Responding to the notification on Monday, Iyabo Ojo expressed her disapproval of the method employed in determining the exorbitant tax bill she received. Taking to her Instagram page, she shared a picture of the bill and voiced her concerns.
In her post, she addressed the Lagos State Governor, Jide Sanwo-Olu, and the Lagos State Government, questioning the rationale behind the frequent imposition of such exorbitant personal income taxes. She highlighted that she has already fulfilled her tax obligations for her businesses and personal property.
The actress further criticized the authorities for demanding such a substantial amount and granting her a mere seven-day deadline to settle the debt. She also recalled a previous encounter where she visited the government office to clarify her income declaration with the assistance of her tax consultant, but received no response.
Expressing her frustration, Iyabo Ojo queried the methodology employed to calculate the inflated tax bill and raised questions about the government’s contributions to her well-being. She asserted that the authorities had not provided any meaningful assistance or support to her throughout her career.
In a defiant tone, the actress concluded her post by sarcastically suggesting that the government could proceed to shut down her business, arrest her, imprison her, or even take her life if they deemed it necessary. She emphasized the transient nature of life, asserting that everyone would eventually face death.
The actress’s public criticism of the tax assessment has sparked significant attention and discussion among her followers and the general public. Many have voiced their opinions on the fairness and transparency of the tax system and expressed solidarity with Iyabo Ojo.
As the deadline looms, the Nollywood actress is now faced with a critical decision on how to address the tax debt, which could have significant implications for her personal and professional life. Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding the Lagos State Government’s approach to tax assessment continues to stir public debate on the matter.
