Nigerians to get services free – Tax Ombud

Nigerians will be able to access the services of the Office of the Tax Ombud at no cost, as the office positions itself as an independent mediator to protect taxpayers’ rights and reduce tax-related disputes, officials have said.

The Office of the Tax Ombud operates as an independent body that mediates between taxpayers and tax authorities, resolves tax complaints and offers an alternative to lengthy court processes, allowing citizens to seek redress without financial burden.

The Head of Media at the Office of the Tax Ombud, Yusuf Issa An-Nuphawi, disclosed this during a visit to the Media Trust Group in Abuja.

He said the office serves as a safety net for taxpayers and a neutral platform for resolving disputes.

“The Tax Ombud is free of charge and operates as an independent mediator. We exist to protect taxpayers and reduce disputes,” he said.

Issa explained that the establishment of the office would also help decongest courts by providing a simpler and faster mechanism for addressing tax-related grievances.

“With the Tax Ombud in place, taxpayers no longer need to hide or rush to court. They can simply approach us, visit our office, call or write to lodge complaints,” he said.

He added that the office would also educate taxpayers on their obligations under the new tax regime and resolve grievances at no cost.

“Where there are grievances, we settle them, and we do so at no cost,” he said, noting that fees would only apply in cases requiring physical inspections or detailed investigations.

“Costs may arise only if we need to visit a physical facility or examine accounting software used in computing tax statements, and even then, the fees are reasonable,” he explained.

Issa said the office was committed to accessibility and public education, noting that taxpayers could reach the office through multiple channels, including in local languages.

“People in remote villages can call and speak in their local languages. We are also deploying technology to allow access through emails, messages and other digital platforms,” he said.

He added that the law provides for offices across the geopolitical zones, with plans to extend operations to states and local communities.

According to him, complaints must be resolved within 30 days, failing which the office can take the matter to court on behalf of the taxpayer, noting that the office also has prosecutorial powers.

Responding on behalf of the Group Chief Executive Officer of Media Trust Group, Ahmed I. Shekarau, the Deputy Editorial Director and Chairman of the Editorial Board of Daily Trust, Hamza Idris, pledged the organisation’s support.

He said Media Trust remained committed to educating Nigerians on tax laws and their implications, adding that while paying tax is an obligation, it must be matched with responsibility and fairness from tax authorities.

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