The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has urged governments at all levels to ensure that citizens experience visible improvements from the taxes they pay.
The monarch made this appeal in Ibadan during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), emphasizing the importance of accountability in public finance.
According to Oba Ladoja, taxpayers deserve access to essential services, including reliable security, clean water, good road infrastructure, steady electricity supply, and employment opportunities.
He stressed that delivering these basic amenities would strengthen public trust and encourage voluntary tax compliance across the country.
The traditional ruler also reminded citizens of their civic duty to pay taxes, noting that failure to do so could compel governments to rely heavily on borrowing.
However, he warned authorities against imposing multiple or overlapping taxes, describing double taxation as a burden that could discourage compliance.
Oba Ladoja further recommended that certified professionals from the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria be actively involved in designing and implementing tax policies.
He encouraged the institute to contribute meaningfully to development initiatives within Ibadanland and beyond.
Speaking earlier, the President of CITN, Mr Innocent Ohagwa, described Ibadan as a historically significant city known for its contributions to commerce, culture, and leadership in Nigeria.
Ohagwa acknowledged the Olubadan’s influence in Nigeria’s democratic evolution and commended the role of traditional institutions in governance.
He noted that long before modern tax systems were introduced, traditional institutions played a key role in organizing communal contributions and managing resources.
According to him, this historical framework continues to offer valuable lessons for improving Nigeria’s current tax administration system.
The visit was attended by prominent Ibadan chiefs, including Oba Kolawole Adegbola, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Muibi Ademola, Aare Alasa Olubadan, and Chief Adegboyega Adegoke, Aare Egbe Omo Balogun.
