Authorities of the internal revenue services in Lagos and Ogun states may be on a collision course as the two bodies have indicated interests in collecting tax from the winner of the 2020 edition of the Big Brother Nigeria reality TV show, Olamilekan ‘Laycon’ Agbeleshe.
The indications of an impending clash between the Lagos and Ogun IRS became clearer following the simultaneous demands for tax by the two bodies from Laycon.
The two states’ tax authorities in their separate congratulatory messages to the BBNaija winner had subtly demanded he paid his tax from his N55m prize to them.
The Lagos tax agency, LIRS, was the first to make the demand for tax on Laycon, tweeting, “Congratulations @itsLaycon winner @BBNaija Lockdown edition. More wins!! We look forward to seeing you in Y2021 as you #payyourtax.”
The Ogun State Internal Revenue Service followed suit within a few hours after the Lagos IRS asked the rapper to pay his tax to Lagos State.
The Ogun State IRS also tweeted its own post encouraging the 2020 BBNaija winner to pay his tax to Ogun State.
Ogun IRS tweeted, “The Ogun State Internal Revenue Service is delighted to congratulate one of our own in the State, Olamilekan Agbelesebioba, AKA @itsLaycon for emerging winner of @BBNaija Lockdown. We look forward to having a robust relationship with you in year 2021 as you pay your tax.”
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, had earlier described Laycon as a pacesetter, saying his victory aptly confirmed his brilliance.
Attempt to reach Laycon to comment on the states’ request proved abortive.
Twenty-six-year-old Laycon got N30m in cash and will also receive various gifts and incentives valued at N55m for winning the show.
Such incentives include an all-expense-paid trip to Dubai for two, a two-bedroom apartment, a Sport Utility Vehicle from Innoson Motors, a Scanfrost electronic makeover, one year supply of Pepsi Cola, one year supply of Munch It and Indomie noodles, and VIP tickets to watch the European Champions League final.