By Sylvanus Ofekun
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has issued a strong rebuke to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) regarding the recent closure of one of its offices in Abuja, labeling the action as “malicious” and “unprofessional.”
In a statement shared via X (formerly Twitter), Arabirin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the FIRS Executive Chairman, criticized the FCTA, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, for what she described as an unfair targeting of the agency.
“It is highly unprofessional for the Wike-led FCTA to close our office, disrupting staff who are diligently performing their duties, especially during a crucial week when we are anticipating the signing of the Tax Reform Bills,” Atoyebi stated. “FCTA, you goofed big time; FIRS isn’t owing you.”
Atoyebi further accused the FCTA of attempting to use the FIRS as a scapegoat, saying, “If you are looking for a fall guy, please move further. We shouldn’t be your scapegoat when you know well that the lies you spread in the media and your malicious/illegal action will hurt our operations.”
The FIRS asserts that it has no outstanding rent payments to the FCTA for the past 25 years, maintaining that all obligations have been fulfilled up to 2023. “We have the evidence,” Atoyebi emphasized, countering any claims of indebtedness.
This incident occurs at a pivotal time for Nigeria’s tax system, with significant reform legislation expected to be finalized soon. The FIRS has expressed concerns that such disruptions could undermine public confidence and delay the implementation of essential fiscal policies.
Analysts caution that escalating tensions between federal agencies may adversely affect service delivery and contribute to institutional instability.
