Renowned Nigerian food critic Opeyemi Famakin has vowed never to disclose his finances publicly again following an unexpected encounter with the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS). The celebrity critic shared his experience during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, shedding light on how a casual statement about his income brought a hefty tax bill.

The N80 Million Surprise

Famakin revealed that within 48 hours of discussing his financial success in an interview, the LIRS contacted him via email with a tax bill amounting to a staggering ₦80 million.

“Two days after I mentioned my finances, LIRS sent me an email; they billed me N80 million. I paid it o. It was like play,” Famakin recounted.

Though surprised by the swift response, Famakin complied, settling the tax bill promptly. However, the incident has left him resolute in his decision to remain tight-lipped about his earnings moving forward. “I would never talk about my finances again. Even though I told them ‘allegedly,’ they said no, but let’s not discuss it. I’m now a proud taxpayer,” he added.

A Journey of Financial Success

Famakin has long been a prominent figure in Nigeria’s culinary and lifestyle industry, famously claiming in 2022 that he earned ₦9 million in a bad week as a food critic. His statement at the time sparked debates and reactions, with many admiring his rise to prominence in what is often considered an unconventional career.

Opinion: The Perils of Financial Transparency

Famakin’s story is a cautionary tale for public figures and high earners who choose to share details of their financial success. While transparency can inspire others, it also comes with its risks, including attracting scrutiny from tax authorities.

His experience underscores the importance of financial literacy, proper tax planning, and understanding the obligations that come with substantial earnings. By settling his tax bill, Famakin has demonstrated his commitment to civic responsibility, but the incident also highlights the efficiency of tax authorities in tracking public statements.

A Shift in Perspective

Famakin’s decision to remain private about his finances going forward is understandable, especially in a society where wealth disclosure can lead to both admiration and unwanted attention. His transition to a “proud taxpayer” marks a new chapter in his financial journey, one that emphasizes compliance and discretion.

Conclusion

Opeyemi Famakin’s experience serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of fame, finance, and responsibility. While his rise as Nigeria’s highest-paid food critic is undoubtedly inspiring, it also highlights the importance of navigating financial success with caution. For aspiring entrepreneurs and public figures, the message is clear: celebrate your success, but do so wisely.