- Lagos Govt Seals Shoprite Ikeja Over Tax Breach.
- Notice warns of penalties and forbids removing seal without approval.
- Shoprite operators blame economic strain and ongoing restructuring efforts.
The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service has sealed the Shoprite outlet at Ikeja City Mall over alleged failure to comply with tax obligations.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that officials of the agency placed a notice at the entrance of the store, stating that the violation falls under Section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act 2011 and carries penalties that may include fines or imprisonment.
The notice warned that tampering with the seal without authorisation from the revenue agency constitutes a further offence.
“Take notice that the owner or occupant of this premises has failed to comply with his or her tax obligations under the relevant tax laws,” it read.
“This is a contravention of the law punishable by both pecuniary penalties and imprisonment pursuant to section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act 2011 as amended.”
The closure comes at a difficult period for Shoprite Nigeria, which has been struggling with financial constraints and rising operational costs. In recent years, the company has shut down outlets in Wuse and Kano due to unfavourable business conditions.
Reports from several branches, including Ikeja, Ilorin, and Ibadan, indicate recurring stock shortages and empty shelves. Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited, operators of Shoprite in the country, has denied rumours of a nationwide exit, insisting it is restructuring operations to align with current economic realities and now sources most of its products locally.
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