ICADAR Seeks FIRS Disclosure on International Tax MoU, TSA Revenue Collection Arrangement
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The Impacthive Centre for Accountability, Democracy and Rights (ICADAR) has submitted a formal request to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) seeking access to key documents and details under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, in a move aimed at strengthening transparency in Nigeria’s fiscal administration.
In a letter addressed to the Executive Chairman of FIRS at the Service’s headquarters in Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, ICADAR requested that specific information be released within seven working days from the date the request is received, as required by law. The organisation stated that the request is made in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act and reflects its mandate to promote accountability and democratic governance.
Central to the request is a demand for a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding recently signed between FIRS and the French tax authority, Direction Générale des Finances Publiques. ICADAR indicated that public access to the agreement is necessary to enable informed assessment of its objectives, terms and implications for Nigeria’s tax administration framework.
ICADAR further requested comprehensive information on the process that led to the appointment of Xpress Payment Solutions Limited as a Treasury Single Account collecting agent. The organisation specifically asked for details on the procedure followed in making the appointment, the individuals behind the company, and the percentage of government revenue the firm is authorised to collect as payment for its services.
The organisation requested that the information be provided within the statutory period and transmitted electronically to its official email address. It emphasised that timely compliance would be in line with the spirit and letter of the Freedom of Information Act.
The letter was signed by ICADAR’s Executive Director, Dr. Bello Ishaq, who noted that the organisation’s intervention is intended to encourage openness, accountability and public confidence in the management of revenue collection and international fiscal cooperation.
