Lagos Government Responds to Peller’s ₦36M Tax Bill Plea | ShediBlog

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Lagos Government Responds to Peller’s ₦36M Tax Bill Plea

Published By Managements on October 7th, 2025 at 3:16 AM

The Lagos State Government has finally broken its silence after popular TikTok creator Peller raised alarm over a staggering ₦36 million tax bill issued to him by the Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS).

Peller’s Outcry

Peller, whose real name is Habeeb Hamzat, shot to fame on TikTok with his comedy skits and dance content. Recently, he took to social media to lament that LIRS demanded he pay ₦36 million in taxes — an amount he insists is unrealistic given that he only gained recognition last year.

Government’s Response

Reacting to the viral complaint, the Special Adviser on Tax and Revenue, Abdulkabir Ogungbo, clarified that all individuals earning legitimate income, including digital creators and influencers, are required to pay taxes.

He stressed that:

The Lagos State Government provides infrastructure and services, and everyone benefiting from them has a duty to contribute.
The tax bill is based on an independent assessment by LIRS, which is empowered to calculate taxable income.
Online and virtual earnings are now fully recognized under the tax reforms in Lagos.

“If you earn legitimately in Lagos, you must pay your tax. Fame or online status doesn’t exempt anyone,” Ogungbo emphasized.

What This Means for Creators

The case has sparked debate among Nigerian creators, many of whom are only now realizing that digital income is taxable. Under Nigerian law, especially Section 24 of the Constitution, citizens are expected to contribute to national development through taxes.

For influencers and entertainers:

YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and endorsement earnings are taxable.
LIRS assessments can be challenged or appealed, but the obligation remains.
Transparency in declaring earnings can prevent inflated bills.

What’s Next for Peller?

Ogungbo revealed he has yet to review Peller’s specific file but promised to collaborate with LIRS for clarity. There is also the possibility of reviewing or adjusting the amount if the initial assessment was not accurate.

For now, the ₦36M tax saga stands as a wake-up call to Nigerian influencers: digital fame comes with financial responsibilities.

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