Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Ltd, the operator of Shoprite in Nigeria, said its Lekki outlet at The Palms Shopping Mall has not been sealed by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service and remains fully operational.

The company said in a statement on Thursday, issued by Chief Strategy Officer Bunmi Adeleye, that it has operated in Nigeria for over two decades under transparent corporate governance and full compliance with statutory disclosure and tax standards.

The clarification comes after it was reported (not The PUNCH) on November 12, 2025, that LIRS had allegedly sealed the Lekki outlet for failure to comply with tax obligations. A notice posted at the mall entrance stated that the premises had contravened tax laws punishable under Section 94 of the Personal Income Tax Act 2011 (as amended), warning that removal of the notice without LIRS approval could result in imprisonment, the publication said.

While denying any sealing or enforcement action, Shoprite acknowledged that it received a Demand Notice from LIRS relating to the reconciliation of PAYE deductions for April to July 2025.

“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,” Adeleye stated.

The company described the notice as a routine procedural component of tax administration for large employers, clarifying that it does not constitute a finding of default or enforcement action.

Shoprite said it is engaging the LIRS technical team to complete the reconciliation and settle any confirmed balance. “Our commitment is unwavering: we will resolve this procedural matter promptly to reinforce our long record of compliance and support the stability of the Lagos economy,” Adeleye added.

Shoprite urged the public, vendors, and media to rely solely on official company communications regarding its operational status.