Wale busari

Every Nigerian Must File Tax Returns By March 31 – Oyedele

The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has called on Nigerians to comply with the law by filing their annual tax returns, stressing that the obligation applies to both employers and individual taxpayers. Oyedele made the call during a webinar organised for HR managers, payroll officers, chief financial officers and tax managers, held in collaboration with the Joint Revenue Board. The session, which was posted on YouTube on Friday, focused on tax compliance and ongoing fiscal reforms. Speaking during the webinar, Oyedele noted that a significant number of Nigerians remain non-compliant with the requirement to file self-assessment tax returns. “In terms of filing returns, you need to file annual returns as employers for your employees. Many of you must have done that already. If you haven’t, you have just a couple of days left to file those returns, including projections of how much you will pay your staff,” he said. He also highlighted the low level of compliance among individual taxpayers, describing it as a major weakness in Nigeria’s tax system. “This is one area where we have been non-compliant in Nigeria. In many states, more than 90%—even the most sophisticated states—cannot boast of 5% filing returns,” Oyedele said. According to him, recent tax reforms have clarified that employees still have responsibilities even when their employers deduct taxes directly from their salaries. “Many people assume that if they are an employee and the employer has deducted pay, they don’t have to do anything. That is wrong. Both under the old and new tax laws, you must still file your returns.” Oyedele assured taxpayers that efforts are ongoing to simplify the filing process and encourage compliance across all income levels. “I’m sure the tax authorities, joint revenue boards, and various state internal revenue services are working on how to make this process simpler and easier. All of us must file our returns, including those earning low income. You must file returns by 31st March of the year in respect of the previous fiscal year.” He further disclosed that businesses benefiting from tax incentives now have additional disclosure obligations under the new tax framework. “Under the new tax law, if you operate a business as an enterprise and you enjoy certain incentives, you have the obligation to disclose those incentives. There’s a disclosure requirement for tax incentives that is not available to everybody as a general rule for taxpayers—to disclose them when filing their tax returns or shortly after.” Oyedele concluded by reiterating that improved compliance is central to strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal system and supporting sustainable economic development.

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2027: Okpebholo Orders LG Chairmen To Erect 360 Campaign Billboards For Tinubu’s Re-election

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has directed chairmen of the state’s 18 local government areas to erect a total of 360 campaign billboards in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid. The directive was issued on Friday, January 30, 2026, during the inauguration of the Edo State chapter of the National Renewed Hope Initiative, a platform created to promote President Tinubu’s agenda across the country. According to the governor, each local government chairman is expected to put up 20 billboards within their respective council areas. He explained that the move is aimed at ensuring that the Renewed Hope message of the President penetrates grassroots communities, including religious institutions such as churches and mosques. Governor Okpebholo praised President Tinubu for what he described as far-reaching reforms in critical sectors including petroleum, security, education and the economy, insisting that the impact of the policies is already evident nationwide. He argued that replacing a president who is delivering tangible results would be unrealistic, urging Edo residents to rally behind Tinubu’s return to Aso Rock for a second term. Expressing confidence in the level of support within the state, the governor said Edo citizens across all age groups are prepared to mobilise massively for the President. “It is not just about the agenda; it is about the capacity to mobilise. The Edo people are prepared. Nobody can beat Asiwaju’s record in governance. We cannot replace a man who is performing. “With 30 APC governors nationwide, President Tinubu’s re-election campaign is already strengthened. The victory in 2027 is assured. “I want local government chairmen across the 18 LGAs to erect at least 20 billboards each and ensure the Renewed Hope message reaches grassroots communities, religious institutions, churches, and mosques. “The religious groups must hear this message. Churches and mosques must be involved. Religious groups will be inaugurated soon. “I promised Mr President 2.5 million votes. Our party chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, added to it, and the women’s leader also added, and now we have 3.9 million votes. Edo people must deliver on this promise,” he said. Earlier, the Edo State Coordinator of the National Renewed Hope Initiative, Mr Sylvester Aigboboh, formally inaugurated Senatorial, Local Government Area and Youth Coordinators to drive President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign. Aigboboh commended the President’s reforms, noting that they are drawing investors and restoring confidence among Nigerians. He added that the benefits of fuel subsidy removal are gradually becoming evident. He charged the newly appointed ambassadors to intensify grassroots mobilisation while actively promoting the policies and achievements of the Tinubu administration. According to him, the inauguration marked the official launch of a people-focused movement designed to strengthen party outreach, deepen good governance and consolidate the Renewed Hope Agenda. He described the appointments as a call to service, urging the coordinators to function as vital links between the government, party leadership and grassroots supporters, while promoting unity within the All Progressives Congress, APC. “The objective of this group is to foster inclusiveness, galvanise grassroots support, and consolidate the gains towards President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” he said, urging members to remain loyal in service to the party and nation”, he added. The three senatorial leaders appointed as Renewed Hope Ambassadors are Joshua Uwagboe for Edo South, Hon. Odinose Okojie for Edo Central, and Hon. Abdul Lawani for Edo North. The appointees expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for the confidence placed in them and pledged to take the campaign message directly to the grassroots to secure President Tinubu’s re-election. In addition, 18 coordinators were inaugurated to oversee activities across the state’s local government areas, alongside three youth coordinators appointed from the three senatorial districts.

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LIRS Extends Deadline for Employers’ Annual Tax Returns to February 7

LIRS Extends Deadline for Employers’ Annual Tax Returns to February 7

The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, has announced a one-week extension for the submission of employers’ annual tax returns, shifting the deadline from February 1 to February 7. The extension was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Executive Chairman of the agency, Dr Ayodele Subair. According to the service, the decision is aimed at giving employers additional time to comply while ensuring that filings are accurate ahead of stricter enforcement of tax regulations in Lagos State. Dr Subair explained that under existing laws, employers are ordinarily required to file their annual tax returns on or before January 31 each year. However, the agency considered it necessary to grant a brief extension to help employers complete their submissions properly and avoid mistakes that could result in penalties or further review. He emphasized that the filing of annual returns remains a fundamental obligation for employers and should form part of their regular business processes, rather than being treated as an afterthought. Dr Subair also made it clear that the extension does not signal any softening of LIRS’ enforcement posture. “Employers must give priority to the timely filing of their annual returns, and compliance should be embedded as a routine business practice.” He further reiterated that electronic submission remains mandatory, noting that physical or manual filings are no longer accepted by the agency. “Electronic filing through the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual returns, as manual filings have been completely phased out.” “Employers are therefore required to file their returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal: https://etax.lirs.net,”he said. In addition, Dr Subair advised employers to ensure that the Tax Identification Number, TaxID, of all employees is accurately reflected in their filings. He also encouraged them to visit any LIRS office or make use of the agency’s official communication channels should they require further assistance or clarification.

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PDP Warns Courts Against Interfering in Party Affairs

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has cautioned the judiciary against interfering in its internal matters, warning that such actions could blur the line between the courts and partisan politics. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, made this known on Friday during an interview on Arise Television, where he expressed concern that the courts are increasingly being drawn into political roles. Reacting to recent judicial decisions affecting the party, Ememobong said the ruling in question reflected careful consideration, noting that the party’s constitution does not provide for a national caretaker arrangement. According to him: “Well, this verdict only shows the wisdom that my lord used in arriving at that because I’m sure that my lord cannot point to the constitution of the party anywhere where there is a national caretaker. “But again, I have tremendous respect for the court and which is why the court should stay away from the internal affairs of the party so that they don’t become politicians. But you do know that perception and reality may have divergence, but when they converge to the extent that people lose faith in a process, then something is wrong.” Ememobong stressed that his comments were not an accusation against the judiciary but a reflection on public perception, which he described as critical to the credibility of the justice system. “I’m not saying anything, but I’m simply saying that you find a situation where the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court goes to beg the Minister of the FCT for land and houses for judges of the Federal High Court. I’m not saying anything, but I’m simply saying perception. I will send you the video.” He further referenced a publicly reported courtesy visit, explaining that such interactions, when viewed alongside politically sensitive cases, could raise concerns in the minds of the public. “The courtesy call was public and the minister was even saying, oh, how many of you are there across different jurisdictions? Oh, we’ll start with the senior judges or the younger judges and all of that. “And incidentally, all these cases go to those people. We are not accusing them, but we are simply saying perception because it is a fundamental issue in law that justice must not just be done, but it must be seen to be done.” The PDP spokesperson concluded by reiterating the party’s call for judicial restraint in political party affairs, emphasizing that maintaining public confidence in the legal process is essential for democracy to thrive.

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Wizkid vs Fela: Nigeria Has Bigger Problems to Fix – Femi Kuti

Wizkid vs Fela: Nigeria Has Bigger Problems to Fix – Femi Kuti

Afrobeat legend Femi Kuti has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the growing trend of comparing today’s Nigerian music stars to his late father, iconic Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. According to him, such arguments add little value and distract from far more pressing national concerns. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Femi made it clear that he has no interest in engaging in the debate, stressing that Nigeria’s challenges go well beyond entertainment rivalries. “I wish it never came up. I’m not participating in it,” he said. He went further to criticise the state of governance in the country, lamenting the lack of meaningful leadership and direction. “The government doesn’t even know how to move people positively forward. It’s shameful.” The renewed conversation was triggered by comments attributed to Afrobeat star Wizkid, who claimed superiority over Fela in a remark directed at Seun Kuti. Wizkid was quoted as saying, “ I big pass your papa.” Not long after the controversy, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti received a posthumous nomination for a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, an honour that reignited discussions about his enduring impact on Nigerian and global music. Reacting to this, Femi argued that his father’s legacy should not be measured against contemporary artistes. He described Fela as the bedrock of Nigeria’s music industry, whose influence transcends generational comparison. “Fela is the template musically and artistically in Nigeria. He should be put in a sector of his own and respected,” he said. While recognising the international success enjoyed by modern Afrobeat stars, Femi Kuti maintained that the emphasis should be on collaboration, unity and national development rather than competition. He also expressed frustration that decades after Fela’s death, many of the societal problems his father sang about still persist. “For 29 years, he has been gone, yet we are still discussing the same issues,” Femi said, noting that corruption, insecurity, tribalism and terrorism have only intensified. Femi Kuti concluded by encouraging Nigerians, especially the youth, to harness the global spotlight on Nigerian music as a tool for nation building and social change. “This recognition is good for Nigeria and Africa. We should use it to build the country, build our music industry, and come together,” he added.

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‘Home alone’ star Catherine O’Hara dies at 71

‘Home Alone’ Star Catherine O’Hara Dies At 71

Reports circulating online claim that acclaimed Hollywood actress Catherine O’Hara, best known for her roles in Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, has died at the age of 71. According to the reports, her agency, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), allegedly confirmed that O’Hara passed away at her home in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles. No cause of death has been disclosed. O’Hara rose to global fame for her memorable role as the frantic yet loving mother of Kevin McCallister in the first two Home Alone films, a performance that cemented her place in pop culture history. She later earned widespread critical acclaim and a new generation of fans for her portrayal of the eccentric and iconic Moira Rose in the Emmy-winning comedy series Schitt’s Creek, where she appeared in 80 episodes and won multiple awards. Her extensive filmography also includes standout performances in Best in Show (2000), A Mighty Wind (2003), Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, and several other projects that showcased her distinctive comedic brilliance. A Canadian native who began her career in improvisational comedy, O’Hara enjoyed a decades-long career spanning film, television, and stage, becoming one of the most respected figures in comedy. As of now, official confirmation from major news outlets is still being awaited. Fans and colleagues across the world have continued to reflect on her immense contributions to comedy and popular culture amid the circulating reports.

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Singer Bad Bunny named greatest pop star of 2025

Singer Bad Bunny Named Greatest Pop Star of 2025

Global music sensation Bad Bunny has been crowned the biggest pop star of 2025, topping Billboard’s annual Greatest Pop Stars ranking ahead of some of the industry’s most dominant names. The music publication unveiled the Puerto Rican superstar as number one on Friday, placing him ahead of Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift. According to Billboard, Bad Bunny’s top ranking was driven by the massive success of his album Debí Tirar Más Fotos, his sold-out “No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí” residency, and his foray into acting with a role in Happy Gilmore 2. The announcement comes during a particularly busy stretch for the artist, who is expected to make high-profile appearances around the Grammy Awards and headline the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Taylor Swift secured the second spot on the list, marking yet another year she narrowly missed the top position. A recent fan poll reflected similar expectations, with nearly 70 per cent of respondents predicting Bad Bunny would finish ahead of her. With a landmark year behind him and major performances still ahead, Bad Bunny rounds off 2025 firmly established as pop music’s defining star.

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Angela Okorie

Nollywood Actress, Angela Okorie Gets N5m Bail

A Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday, admitted a Nollywood Actress, Angela Okorie, to a N5 million bail with one surety in like sum for allegedly cyberbullying Mercy Johnson-Okojie, who is also an actress. Justice Emeka Nwite, in a ruling on Okorie’s bail application moved by her lawyer, Earnest Nwoye, held that though the prosecution opposed the request, there was no concrete evidence before the court to prove that the defendant would jump bail if granted. “Therefore, I am minded to grant the bail in the interest of justice,” Justice Nwite said, noting that bail is at the discretion of the court which must be exercised judicially and judiciously. The judge admitted Okorie to N5 million bail with one surety, who must depose to affidavit of means and must be a level 13 civil servant. He warned that the surety must produce his appointment letter and letter of their last promotion in the service. The judge ordered Okorie’s and her surety to submit two passport photographs to the court registrar and that the residence of the surety must be verified by the registrar. Justice Nwite, who adjourned the matter until March 23 for trial, ordered Okorie to be remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre pending the perfection of her bail conditions.

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