Retail Giant Sets Record Straight on False Sealing Reports
Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited, the official operators of Shoprite stores across the country, has firmly rejected circulating reports claiming the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) sealed their outlet at The Palms Shopping Mall in Lekki. The company clarified that no such sealing occurred and the popular retail store has maintained full operations without interruption.
In an official statement released on Thursday, November 21, 2025, the retail corporation described the viral reports as misleading and lacking critical context about standard tax administration procedures. Shoprite emphasized that the claims misrepresented applicable tax processes and were not supported by verified evidence.
Two Decades of Transparent Operations in Nigeria
Highlighting their longstanding presence in the Nigerian market, Shoprite noted they have operated in the country for over two decades while maintaining transparent corporate governance and full compliance with statutory disclosure requirements. The company stressed their commitment to adhering to both federal and state tax regulations across all operations.
Chief Strategy Officer Bunmi Adeleye provided official commentary, stating: "We comply with federal and state tax laws and maintain rigorous tax-governance processes across our operations. Our obligations are met through structured internal controls and continuous engagement with the relevant authorities."
Demand Notice Acknowledgement and Resolution Process
While completely dismissing the false sealing narrative, the retail chain acknowledged receiving a Demand Notice from LIRS specifically concerning the reconciliation of PAYE tax deductions for the period spanning April to July 2025.
The company explained that such demand notices represent standard procedural components within tax administration systems, particularly for large employers with significant workforce numbers. Shoprite clarified that receiving such notice does not constitute a finding of default or indicate enforcement action against the company.
Currently, Shoprite's technical team is actively engaging with LIRS officials to finalize the reconciliation process and settle any confirmed balance that might emerge from the review. The company expressed confidence in resolving this routine administrative matter promptly.
Adeleye reinforced the company's position: "Our commitment is unwavering: we will resolve this procedural matter immediately to reinforce our years record of compliance and support the stability of the Lagos economy."
The retail supermarket chain has urged the general public, business vendors, and media representatives to rely exclusively on official communications from the company regarding its operational status and related developments. This clarification comes amid increasing circulation of unverified information across social media platforms and some news outlets.
