Shockwave in the Sanctuary: “Runs Girls” in the Tax Net
When Taiwo Oyedele, chair of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policies and Reforms, told a Lagos church congregation that even “runs girls” must pay tax, the ripple was instant. For decades, Nigeria’s informal economy thrived in shadows. Now, Tinubu’s reforms declare every transaction taxable — no matter how earned.
“If somebody is doing run girls, they go and look for men to sleep with… you know that’s a service. They will pay tax on it,” Oyedele said.
From Backstreets to Instagram: No Escape for Informal Earners
Under the new law, the distinction between “legit” and “illegit” income disappears. Prostitution, side hustles, influencers earning in forex — all must register, declare, and pay. It’s a fiscal sweep unprecedented in Nigeria’s history.
“If somebody is doing run girls, they go and look for men to sleep with… you know that’s a service. They will pay tax on it,”
The ripple stretches beyond morality:
- Sex workers call it exploitation layered on stigma.
- Influencers brace for audits of foreign payments from brand deals.
- Freelancers and gig workers worry compliance will crush small incomes.
Morality Meets Fiscal Policy
Nigeria’s conservative culture recoils at legalising “runs” as taxable service. But government insists it isn’t endorsing vice — just taxing cashflow. “The law doesn’t ask how you made it. It asks if you made it,” Oyedele explained.
Faith groups split: some hail it as a way to force “repentance through accountability.” Others slam it as hypocrisy in a country where political looters roam free.
Ripple Effect: Can the System Handle It?
Experts warn of practical hurdles:
- Tracking illicit earners: Taxing “runs” girls may prove impossible without endangering their safety.
- Enforcement costs: More taxpayers means more audits — is FIRS ready?
- Corruption risk: Expanded scope may fuel extortion by tax officials.
Still, reformers argue Nigeria needs bold steps to broaden its tax base. With debt eating revenue and oil earnings dwindling, Tinubu’s government is desperate to capture every naira.
Global Parallels, Local Consequences
Countries like Germany and the Netherlands tax sex work openly. But in nations like Nigeria where prostitution remains criminalised, the reforms create a paradox: pay tax on what the law still forbids.
For influencers, parallels exist in Kenya and South Africa where digital taxation is tightening. Nigeria’s move may bring compliance to a booming but untapped sector.
Impact Snapshot
- Revenue Boost: Expanded tax net could lift Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio toward 18% target.
- Public Debate: Sparks clash of morality, legality, and survival.
- Political Heat: Opposition likely to frame it as burdening the poor while elites escape.
This is IDNN. Independent. Digital. Uncompromising.
