Yemisi Izuora
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) has asked aggrieved mobile phone users who oppose deduction of Value Added Tax, VAT on voice calls and test messages to approach the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), for more informations.
The Minister regretted that his office has been inundated with complaints and enquiries concerning the recent 7.5 per cent VAT deductions on voice calls and text messages, by some Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).
“While we appreciate the support and efforts of well meaning Nigerians who have sought clarifications in a civil manner, we wish to inform the general public that the issues of VAT, do not fall under the Ministry’s purview. The office of the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy is not mandated to handle VAT.”, a statement from the Ministry said.
“In the same vein, we also wish to notify the general public that contrary to popular opinion in some quaters, the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy had no prior consultation or awareness about the develpment. All further enquiries and clarifications may henceforth be directed to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), being the proper institution for tax matters.
The Honourable Minister assures all Nigerians that under his leadership, the interest of all Nigerians will be protected.” the statement added.