The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service has sealed the Ikeja branch of Shoprite following alleged failure to meet its statutory tax obligations, marking a major enforcement action in Lagos’ ongoing tax compliance drive.

The development became public on Monday after LIRS officials arrived at the popular retail outlet in Ikeja and placed official enforcement notices at the store’s entrance, effectively shutting down operations.

According to verified information from the revenue authority, the action was taken after several formal notices and engagements were reportedly issued to the company without the expected response. Officials described the sealing as a last resort aimed at compelling compliance with Lagos State tax laws.

Shoppers who were already inside the mall at the time of the exercise were seen exiting the premises as LIRS officers secured the facility. Many expressed surprise at the sudden closure, while others used the moment to raise questions about tax transparency among large corporations operating in Lagos.

LIRS Intensifies Tax Compliance Enforcement Across Lagos

The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service stated that the sealing of Ikeja Shoprite is part of a broader statewide enforcement campaign targeting businesses that default on tax payments. The agency reaffirmed that enforcement is not designed to shut down businesses permanently, but to ensure that companies operate within the law and contribute their fair share to state development.

LIRS officials emphasized that every business, regardless of size or reputation, is subject to the same tax laws. They added that companies that ignore formal tax demands risk similar actions.

The closure of the Ikeja outlet has generated widespread conversation online, with many Nigerians debating the balance between aggressive tax enforcement and maintaining a business friendly climate.

Some social media users applauded the move, calling it a bold step in strengthening accountability and boosting internally generated revenue in Lagos State. Others argued that such enforcement actions should be handled in a way that minimizes disruption for workers and customers.

As of the time of this report, LIRS has not announced a reopening date for the store.

The agency confirmed that operations will only resume once outstanding tax matters are fully addressed in line with Lagos State tax regulations.