KW-IRS Denies Allegations of Discriminatory Tax Policies Against Igbo Traders

The Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KW-IRS) has vehemently denied allegations of discriminatory tax policies against Igbo traders in the state. The agency was responding to a publication by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) on July 31, 2024, which accused KW-IRS of targeting Igbo traders.

In a press release, KW-IRS described the publication as "false, malicious, and inciting" and stated that it was tempted to believe that the narrative was instigated by some members of the Kwara State Igbo Traders Association (KWAITA), which has a pending legal action against the Service.

KW-IRS clarified that the Governor of Kwara State never directed the agency to victimize or act in a particular way towards anyone based on their religion, ethnicity, or social identity. The agency also revealed that the execution of judgments was carried out on six judgment debtors/taxpayers, comprising three Igbo traders and three Yoruba traders.

The agency emphasized its commitment to non-discriminatory policies and adherence to federal law, specifically the Personal Income Tax Act, 2011 (as amended). KW-IRS urged ICIR and those behind the publication to refrain from heating up the polity and interfering with the constitutional powers and functions of the Court.

The agency's denial comes amid growing concerns about ethnic tensions and discrimination in the state. KW-IRS has assured the public of its commitment to fairness, transparency, and the rule of law.