A Nigerian TikTok influencer known as Peller has sparked online debate after publicly criticizing a ₦36 million ($24,000 USD) income tax bill issued by Lagos State authorities, claiming the demand is disproportionately high for his earnings. The controversy arose during a recent livestream with singer Peruzzi, where Peller revealed the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) had ordered him to pay the sum—a figure he insists is unreasonable given his nascent career.
“I just gained prominence last year, and now they want ₦36 million? I don’t have that kind of money,” Peller asserted during the broadcast, suggesting the assessment fails to reflect his actual income as a content creator. Peruzzi, however, urged compliance, emphasizing legal obligations. “Why haven’t you paid? Taxes are mandatory here,” the musician countered, adding that his own payments exceed Peller’s bill but declining to share specifics. He warned of potential legal consequences, including imprisonment, for nonpayment.
Peller pushed back, arguing that authorities targeted him after he publicly disclosed his TikTok earnings and showcased possessions during livestreams. He further criticized the government for not supporting his work financially, stating, “They’ve never gifted me or contributed to my live sessions.” The influencer maintained that his revenue stems from global social media engagements rather than Nigerian-based activities, a point central to his resistance. Peruzzi recommended negotiating a payment extension, but Peller remained defiant, questioning the fairness of taxing income he insists originates outside Nigeria’s formal economy.
The dispute highlights broader tensions between Nigerian authorities and digital creators over tax compliance, particularly as social media monetization grows. Lagos State, the country’s economic hub, has intensified revenue drives in recent years, though critics argue such efforts sometimes lack transparency. While tax obligations for influencers vary globally, Nigeria’s laws stipulate that residents must declare all income sources, including international digital platforms.
Neither the LIRS nor Peller’s representatives have issued formal statements, leaving unanswered questions about the criteria used to calculate the bill. Financial analysts note that without clear guidelines for taxing gig economy and social media earnings, similar conflicts may escalate as more Nigerians turn to online content creation for livelihoods. The outcome could set precedents for how emerging digital professions are integrated into national fiscal systems.
