The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has shut down the Shoprite outlet at Ikeja City Mall, alleging that the popular retail store failed to fulfil its tax responsibilities.






A public notice placed at the entrance of the store stated that the company’s actions violate provisions of Section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2011, which prescribes financial penalties and possible imprisonment for offenders. The warning further emphasized that tampering with or removing the seal without authorization from LIRS constitutes an additional offense.






Part of the notice read:

“The owner or occupant of this premises has failed to comply with tax obligations mandated under the relevant tax laws. This constitutes an offense punishable by fines and imprisonment under Section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act, 2011, as amended.”






The closure adds to ongoing difficulties for Shoprite Nigeria, which has faced a series of operational setbacks in recent years. Stores in Wuse, Abuja, and Kano were previously shut down, with management attributing the closures to financial strain and a challenging business climate. Customers have also reported an increasing number of empty shelves across various branches, including locations in Ikeja, Ilorin, and Ibadan, further fueling concerns about the retailer’s stability.






Despite the setbacks, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited (RSNL)—the franchise operator of Shoprite in the country—has dismissed rumors suggesting an exit from the Nigerian market. The company explained that it is undergoing a major restructuring process aimed at reducing operational costs and strengthening local partnerships. As part of this adjustment, RSNL disclosed that about 80% of items sold in-store are now sourced from Nigerian suppliers, a shift made to cope with foreign exchange pressures and support local production.






The sealed Ikeja outlet is expected to remain closed until LIRS confirms full compliance with all outstanding tax requirements, marking yet another chapter in the retailer’s ongoing struggle to stabilize operations in Nigeria’s turbulent economic environment.