Group withdraws petition against FIRS chair from CCB

The Civil Society Committee Against Corruption in Nigeria (CSCACN) has withdrawn a petition they earlier submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) against the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji.

Adedeji had been previously accused of holding two other public offices.

Disclosing the withdrawal of the petition at a press conference in Abuja, CSCACN said their actions were driven by a genuine concern for transparency and accountability in public office.

They regretted failing to verify the information they received thoroughly before making the serious allegations.

They noted that the previous petition they wrote to the CCB, accusing Adedeji of unfounded wrongdoing was based on inaccurate and misleading information they received.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Abdullahi Mohammed acknowledged the enormous achievements of the FIRS boss, noting his pragmatic and strategic managerial approach and innovations that have significantly improved revenue collection.

The reforms, Mohammed noted, include creative engagement of taxpayers and upscaling the agency’s capacity within the short period he assumed office.

He said: “CSCACN would like to sincerely apologize to the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Zacch Adedeji, for the petition we had submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau.

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“We regret any inconvenience or damage this may have caused to his reputation and the integrity of the FIRS.

“Our actions were driven by a genuine concern for transparency and accountability in public office, but we should have verified the information more thoroughly before making such serious allegations.”

The group passed a vote of confidence in Adedeji for his exceptional leadership and achievements in revenue collection, tax administration, and contribution to national development.

According to them, under Adedeji’s leadership, the FIRS has strengthened its internal control mechanisms and compliance with best practices in corporate governance. This development has helped enhance the overall integrity and credibility of the agency, making it a more trustworthy and reliable partner in the country’s tax ecosystem.

“Moreover, the FIRS under Mr. Adedeji’s stewardship has collaborated with other government agencies and international partners to combat tax evasion, money laundering, and other financial crimes.

“This has helped strengthen the country’s economic resilience and protect the integrity of its financial system, which are essential for attracting foreign investment and fostering sustainable economic growth.

“Therefore, the group expressed its unwavering support and confidence in Mr. Adedeji’s ability to continue leading the FIRS to greater heights and called upon all Nigerians, the government, and relevant stakeholders to support the FIRS in its efforts to enhance tax administration and contribute to national development.”