Lagos Speaks On Imposition Of N8,100 Tax Levy In Schools

The Lagos State Government has explained why it introduced an N8,100 tax levy in public primary and secondary schools across the state, saying it is the duty of parents to pay tax.

Parents and guardians have been outraged over the introduction of tax in Lagos public schools, criticising the government’s decision.

Jamiu Alli-Balogun, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, in a statement, said the misconception of parents and guardians on the payment of N8,100 tax Levy as school fees for pupils and students in the ongoing resumption of a new academic calendar year 2023/2024 has generated the usual criticism of Lagos State Education Governance.

He said the realization that taxation is one of the core internally generated revenue for the government in order to meet its commitment with public demands, is key to developmental strides, in the provision of basic necessities to the citizens.

“Lagos State Government free education policy is still operating from kindergarten to SS3. The tax payment is the duty of parents to pay. The LIRS staff are attached to schools for easier payment of tax by parents.

“Parents that have paid their tax need not pay another but provide their tax certificate for authentication and verification. This can be done instantly by LIRS staff for necessary documentation to avoid double taxation,” he said.

Alli-Balogun said receipts for tax payments are to be issued instantly to avoid the collection of tax payments bundle from parents using one surname for many pupils or students.

“This is unacceptable unless the pupils and students are from the same parents. The tax payments is an ongoing exercise and not a hindrance to deny pupils and students from registration enrollment into schools,” he said.