The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has sharply criticised the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for sealing off one of its offices in Abuja, describing the move as “malicious” and “unprofessional.”
In a strongly worded statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Arabirin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the FIRS Executive Chairman, accused the FCTA under Minister Nyesom Wike of unjustly targeting the revenue agency.
“It’s so unprofessional of the Wike-led FCTA to close our office, distracting staff going about their duties when we did nothing wrong,” Atoyebi said. “Especially in a crucial week like this when we are looking forward to signing the Tax Reform Bills. FCTA, you goofed big time, FIRS isn’t owing you.”
Atoyebi also warned the FCTA against scapegoating the FIRS in what she described as a politically motivated clampdown.
“If you are looking for a fall guy, please move further,” she added. “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.”
According to the FIRS, the agency has no outstanding rent payments to the FCTA and has met all its obligations up to 2023.
“We have the evidence,” Atoyebi stated, firmly denying any claims of indebtedness.
The timing of the incident has raised eyebrows, coming just as Nigeria prepares to sign critical tax reform legislation. FIRS officials argue that such interference could shake public trust and stall key fiscal policy advancements.
Observers say the dispute could signal a deeper rift between government agencies, warning that continued friction may affect service delivery and undermine institutional coherence.
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