The Lagos State Government has commenced legal action against 45 companies and individuals over alleged tax debts amounting to several billions of naira, in a renewed push to enforce compliance with tax laws.
The cases were filed before the state Revenue Court as part of efforts to recover outstanding revenues and ensure adherence to statutory obligations.
Among the defendants is Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two, which is accused of owing about N38.7m in unpaid taxes.
Other firms listed in the suits include GMT Energy Resources Limited, with alleged liabilities exceeding N145.8m, and Sheriff Deputies Limited, said to owe over N132.1m.
Also named are Heyden Petroleum Limited, AA Rescue, Primero Transport Services Limited, IENG Nigeria Limited, James Fisher Nigeria Limited, V Care Diagnostics Limited, Venture Garden Nigeria Limited, Saro Africa International Limited, and Barry Callebaut Nigeria Limited, among others.
Some media organisations were also affected by the legal action.
Govt cites repeated non-compliance
Speaking on the development, the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), said the decision to initiate court proceedings followed repeated notices served on the affected entities, which were largely ignored.
He explained that while individual tax liabilities range between N13.5m and N35m, corporate organisations account for the larger portion of the outstanding sums.
Pedro noted that the government resorted to litigation after the taxpayers failed to take advantage of opportunities provided to regularise their tax status.
Drive to boost revenue
The Attorney-General stated that the enforcement action forms part of broader efforts to strengthen tax compliance and boost internally generated revenue needed for infrastructure development and public service delivery.
He, however, clarified that taxpayers who responded to pre-action notices and cleared their liabilities would not face prosecution.
Pedro also urged residents and business owners to comply with tax regulations by filing annual returns and settling assessments promptly, warning that continued default could attract penalties, interest, and legal sanctions.
The development underscores the determination of the administration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu to widen the tax net and improve revenue collection in Africa’s largest commercial hub.
