Nigerian preacher Johnson Suleman has voiced strong frustration over taxation, revealing that he pays millions of naira annually while criticizing the poor state of infrastructure across the country. In a widely circulated video, the outspoken cleric addressed a common misconception that pastors do not pay taxes. He clarified that while churches may enjoy certain exemptions, individual pastors must pay personal income tax like all other citizens.
Personal Income Tax Burden on Pastors
Suleman disclosed that individual pastors, including himself, pay substantial amounts in personal income tax. He said, 'People don't know pastors pay tax. They think we don't pay. Personal income tax. I'm not talking of church tax.' He further revealed that his yearly tax payments run into millions, adding that the financial burden is significant. He claimed that some pastors pay between 20 million and 40 million naira annually, especially those with large public profiles and visible philanthropic activities.
The cleric noted that beyond taxes, many pastors also fund charity initiatives, which increases the pressure. According to him, the situation becomes more difficult when tax bills are adjusted upward without clear explanations. Recounting a recent interaction with his tax administrator, Suleman said he questioned an increase in his tax bill, asking, 'What increased in me?'
Allegations of Unfair Tax Assessments
Suleman suggested that authorities may be estimating earnings based on public appearances and charitable gestures rather than actual income. He alleged that officials sometimes monitor philanthropic acts and use them as indicators of higher earnings, which could lead to inflated tax assessments. Beyond the financial burden, Suleman expressed dissatisfaction with the state of public infrastructure, citing poor road conditions and a lack of electricity. 'There is no light. The tax is paining me,' he said.
Public Reactions
The video sparked reactions on social media. User @NdubuezeBenjam6 commented, 'Another pastor brought a tax officer to teach his members how to pay tax, may thunder fire that pastor.' @Talkgriezman stated, 'Don't worry you'll get it back from your congregation they are gullible and sheeples Nigerians are bad at extorting people all in the name of law.' @michaelojuola noted, 'Guess who the finance minister is? The man who created the current tax system. Better be ready to pay tax with all the profits you make from your business.'
Previous Tax Complaints
In 2025, popular content creator Peller also raised an alarm, claiming that the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service had hit him with a tax invoice of 18 million naira. In a viral clip, Peller begged the authorities for mercy, saying, 'Government, please, I need you to pity me. I don't have anything; I am just managing. How can you tell me to come and pay a huge tax? Do you want to kill me? You also have someone like me as a child at home? Why are you doing this to me?'
