The Kaduna Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) has sealed branches of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) in the state capital over an alleged refusal to pay N14.3 million in tax.
Hajiya Aysha Ahmad, the KADIRS Board Secretary and Legal Adviser, said the enforcement action was necessary to ensure tax compliance across the state.
“We sent so many demand notices to them. We asked them to pay the money but they refused. We are left with no other option but to enforce.” Ahmad told journalists
Ahmad emphasized KADIRS’ preference for voluntary tax compliance and lamented the bank’s resistance. She assured that upon payment of the outstanding taxes, the sealed branches would be reopened.
The action, according to Ahmad, is part of a broader effort to achieve the N120 billion revenue target set by the Kaduna State government.
“To achieve a target, there’s always a starting point,” she said. “Sealing UBA branches in the state for tax default is our start. We are also going after all other defaulters to get what is due the state government.”
Ahmad further explained that KADIRS had followed due process, including issuing demand notices and communicating with UBA’s representatives.
She added that an appeal to the tax tribunal resulted in a “win-win” decision, with KADIRS revising the assessment as directed.
However, UBA reportedly failed to comply with the revised assessment, prompting the enforcement action.
Ahmad concluded by urging Kaduna residents to embrace voluntary tax compliance, calling it a civic responsibility.
SOURCE: daylightreporters.com