The Federal Government has filed a six-count charge of alleged tax evasion against Nigerdock Nigeria Limited and seven of its directors before the Federal High Court in Lagos. The directors named in the case, numbered FHC/L/910c/2024, are Maher Jarmakani, Adewale Akanbi, Michael Akhigbe, Daniel Ayscough, Patrick Van Uden, Adebola Adesoye, and Rutger Ten Thij. According to the charge dated November 26, 2024, the company and its directors are accused of failing to meet their tax obligations between 2015 and 2018.
The Federal Government, represented by counsel Moses Ideho, alleges that Nigerdock Nigeria Limited failed to pay Companies Income Tax, Tertiary Education Tax, and Withholding Tax, amounting to ₦68,695,302.53. This figure includes the principal tax liability of ₦21,273,700, accrued interest of ₦45,294,232.53, and penalties totaling ₦2,127,370. The alleged infractions are said to violate Sections 40, 26, and 27 of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Establishment Act 2007 (as amended), as well as Sections 53 and 55 of the Companies Income Tax Act. Additionally, the charges assert violations of Section 11 of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Establishment) Act 2011.
The prosecution claims the company and its directors willfully evaded the payment of taxes due and failed to file accurate and complete tax returns for the years in question. It is further alleged that Nigerdock Nigeria Limited neglected to deduct and remit taxes as required under the law, including tertiary education taxes. The offences, if proven, are punishable under the provisions of the relevant laws.
No date has yet been set for the arraignment of Nigerdock Nigeria Limited and the seven named directors.
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