The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has urged taxpayers to file annual returns before March 31 or face penalties.

In a statement on Sunday in Benin City, Executive Chairman, John Odior, described tax filing as a compulsory legal obligation for eligible residents.

He stated, “Filing your tax returns is a non-optional, statutory, legal and civic obligation.”

Mr Odior said the directive covered employees, business owners, professionals, online traders and those in the informal sector.

He added the agency had introduced an electronic filing system to simplify the process.

He said, “With the e-filing platform, taxpayers can complete their obligations from the comfort of their homes or offices.”

He said the requirement was backed by Section 24(f) of the 1999 Constitution and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025.

Mr Odior warned that defaulters would face sanctions.

“Failure to comply, refusal to file or submission of incomplete or inaccurate information will attract administrative penalties,” he said.

According to him, tax payment is vital to development.

“Tax filing is not just a legal requirement; it contributes to Edo’s growth and development,” he added.

The service advised taxpayers to use its official portal and seek assistance from its offices where necessary.

(NAN)