The Lagos State Government has responded to the viral claims made by TikTok influencer Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller
Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS). Addressing the controversy, ₦36 million tax bill. Abdulkabir Ogungbo, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tax and Revenue, clarified that the LIRS operates as an independent body and bases tax assessments on established guidelines.
Ogungbo emphasized that paying taxes is a civic responsibility required of anyone earning an income within Lagos, whether physically or virtually. He noted that the law mandates residents benefiting from the state’s infrastructure to remit taxes unless they can prove they’re paying to another jurisdiction. While Peller argued that the tax demand was excessive and far beyond his earnings, Ogungbo assured that taxpayers have options to appeal assessments if they seem inaccurate. He also stressed the importance of compliance, especially for digital creators and influencers, as new reforms now cover virtual transactions and digital assets.
The government reiterated its commitment to fairness in tax enforcement while promising to review the specifics of Peller’s case. However, the principle remains clear: all earners, regardless of profession or platform, are obligated to pay their share of taxes.
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