FCT-IRS engages tribunal, security agencies to clamp down on tax defaulters

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) says it has concluded plans to clamp down on erring taxpayers.

The acting executive chairman of the service, Haruna Abdullahi, made this known, according to a statement by the FCT-IRS spokesperson, Mustapha Sumaila on Sunday in Abuja.

“We are engaging the Judiciary, security agencies, the media and other relevant stakeholders on this matter.

“I can assure you that before the year runs out people will be held accountable,” Mr Abdullahi said when he paid a courtesy call on the coordinating secretary of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT), Hajara Oniyangi.

The acting chairman expressed concern about taxpayers’ poor level of compliance despite the huge number in the FCT.

Mr Abdullahi stated that it would no longer be business as usual, adding that the service was determined to ensure all taxpayers in FCT were responsive to their civic duties.

He stressed that the service would not leave any stone unturned, saying it was empowered by law to recover all outstanding tax liabilities while penalising tax defaulters.

“We have built our capacity, and it is our intention to make our mark by ensuring that people do what they are supposed to do according to the law.”

He said the service would be guided by the Personal Income Tax Act, Finance Act, FCT-IRS Act and, of course, the constitution in its operation.

On her part, Ms Oniyangi said the tribunal was established to settle disputes that could arise during the duties.

She disclosed that the tribunal’s processes were simple and clear, with a reputation for prompt judgment delivery.

(NAN)