Amidst social media protest against news that Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner, Opeyemi Ayanwale, popularly called Imisi, would lose ₦37.5 million of her ₦150 million prize money to tax, clarifications have clarified that her winnings are out of the new tax regime beginning January 2026.
The confusion arose following the passage of Nigeria’s 2025 Tax Reform Act, which introduced new personal and corporate income tax rules, including a 25% rate for high-income earners. However, the law is not yet in effect and therefore does not apply to Imisi’s prize, which falls within the 2025 fiscal year.
In spite of this, social media sites buzzed with a mix of reactions. Some reacted with anger to the supposed deduction, while others said taxes were a reasonable burden for well-paid workers.
Facebook user Jurist Oliver Man-Dee wrote, “Till next year 2026 ₦37m no be small money,” while another, Sele Bobo, criticized what he described as Nigerians’ embrace of hardline government policies. “You people have finally consented to pay this tax to a government that cares only for themselves,” he wrote.
Alternatively, Kingsley Afonughe wrote, “To whom much is given, much is expected,” suggesting big earnings have to be accompanied by corresponding taxes.
Imisi was crowned Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner on Sunday night after winning a ₦150 million prize for being the sole survivor following ten weeks of competition. The reality show had begun with 29 housemates but ended with Imisi edging out Dede in a dramatic finale.
Under the new Tax Reform Act effective from January 1, 2026, individuals earning over ₦50 million annually will pay a 25% income tax, with additional levies for companies and capital gains. Since Imisi’s prize predates the implementation date, it remains exempt, though older withholding or prize taxes may still apply.
The clarification has, however, dispelled public concerns, assuring fans that Imisi will receive her full ₦150 million prize undiminished under the new tax legislation.
