The Federal High Court in Abuja has summoned the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo and the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to defend the Federal Government’s proposed Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL). Justice Inyang Ekwo issued the order following a motion filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the New Kosol Welfare Initiative.
The EEL, introduced on February 27, 2024, mandates companies to pay $15,000 annually for expatriates at the director level and $10,000 for those in lower positions. Companies that fail to comply face fines and potential imprisonment for violations such as false reporting or late payments.
The plaintiff, represented by counsel Patrick Peter, argued that the EEL is an “anti-people policy” with severe economic implications. They sought an interim injunction to stop the levy, describing it as a constitutional overreach that violates the requirement for legislative approval in taxation matters.
Justice Ekwo instructed the defendants to respond within three days and provide reasons why the court should not halt the implementation of the levy. The case has been adjourned to January 16, 2025, for further proceedings.