Edo Revenue Service Seals Market Square Over N27.1 Million Accumulated Taxes
Eben Enasco Reporting.
The Edo State Internal Revenue Service, EIRS, says it has sealed a popular business outfit, “The Market Square” in the state capital due to accumulated tax liabilities of over N27.1 million.
The enforcement action according to the Revenue Service, was taken to encourage tax compliance and boost revenue generation in the state.
A statement credited to the Head, Corporate Communications Edo IRS, Courage Eboigbe on Friday September 19, 2025, revealed that the outstanding sum is the result of an audit exercise conducted by the Revenue Service on Market Square, covering the period from 2018 to 2023 for Pay-As-You-Earn PAYE and Withholding Tax liabilities.
He added that the audit findings and subsequent tax assessment were communicated to the company but failed to object to the taxes liability.
Following the company’s refusal to settle its debt, the Revenue Service said it has now, in pursuant to a Court Order, sealed the premises to recover the outstanding tax due to the Edo State Government.
The statement further emphasized that the state revenue service is prepared to unseal the premises immediately upon confirmation of full payment.
Recall that the EIRS has been working to improve tax collection and reduce revenue leakages in the state where the agency has identified several marketplaces and businesses with outstanding tax liabilities and taking steps to recover the debts.
The statement read in part, “The Edo State Internal Revenue Service EIRS today, Friday, September 19, 2025, sealed the premises of Market Square Sunday Foods for non-payment of taxes amounting to N27,005,117.97 Twenty-Seven Million, Five Thousand, One Hundred and Seventeen Naira, Ninety-Seven Kobo Only. Payment of taxes is a fundamental civic responsibility for all individuals and organizations engaged in economic activities in Edo State”.
“Tax revenue is essential for the government to provide critical infrastructure and services for the public goods. Tax compliance significantly enhances business operations and upholds a positive corporate image. The EIRS appreciates all compliant taxpayers and urges others to meet their tax obligations promptly”.
However, the sealed market square has raised concerns among business owners and stakeholders.
While some have expressed support for the EIRS’s efforts to boost revenue, others have called for more dialogue and flexibility in resolving the tax disputes.