Kogi Gov’t Revokes Tax Clearance Requirement For Student Enrollment At State-owned Tertiary Institutions

Governor Usman Ododo’s government of Kogi State has ordered the immediate termination of the policy requiring parents to present Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) as a condition for student enrollment in state-owned tertiary institutions.

Naijaonpoint reports that this development was announced during a press conference in Lokoja by the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) Chairman, Sule Enehe.

The directive comes in response to significant public backlash and protests from civil society organizations, which characterized the policy as a violation of students’ right to education.

Enehe stated that the governor’s decision guarantees that no student will be denied admission or registration due to their parent’s inability to furnish a TCC.

The governor acted promptly to address public concerns, underscoring the importance of ensuring that education remains accessible to all students in Kogi State, as noted by Enehe.

Nevertheless, Enehe called upon taxable residents of the state to fulfil their tax responsibilities, highlighting that tax payment is a constitutional obligation under Section 24(f) of the Nigerian Constitution.

He cautioned that non-compliance with tax obligations could restrict access to certain government benefits, including bursary allowances for students.

He added, “Kogi State is committed to providing quality and affordable education, which is evident in the establishment of three state-owned universities. Parents must play their part by paying taxes to support these initiatives and other social amenities.”

Enehe announced that the KGIRS has heightened its initiatives to combat illegal tax practices by intensifying efforts against fraudulent tax agents. He reported the prosecution of 43 illegal tax collectors and the dismissal of several corrupt employees.

Furthermore, Enehe indicated that the Revenue Service has modernized its tax payment procedures, facilitating compliance for both individuals and businesses.

He highlighted that the KGIRS has experienced substantial revenue growth, with figures of ₦17 billion in 2021, ₦18.2 billion in 2022, ₦23.5 billion in 2023, and ₦27.7 billion in 2024.

The service aims to achieve a target of ₦35.1 billion for 2025.