House of Representatives Committee Warns FIRS Chairman for Non-Attendance

The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has issued a warning to the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, for refusing to honor its invitation, stating that his actions amount to contempt of parliament.

Chairman of the PAC, Rep. Bamidele Salam, issued the warning during the investigative hearing of revenue leakages in Abuja on Thursday.

Salam expressed disappointment, noting that it was the fourth time the committee had invited Adedeji without his attendance.

Salam emphasized that the committee had officially written to Adedeji and ensured that the letters were delivered personally to his mailbox and WhatsApp number.

He described Adedeji’s behavior as irresponsible and arrogant, warning of consequences if he continues to disregard the parliament’s summons.

The committee highlighted a specific concern regarding value-added tax (VAT) collection on Remitta. Salam noted that VAT from revenue collected by Remitta should have been received by FIRS.

However, the committee found that the VAT was combined with other funds and shared with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the bank, and Remitta.

Salam emphasized the significant amount of money involved, stating that after reconciliation, the sum could reach hundreds of billions.

The committee urged FIRS to attend the hearings to address these issues promptly.