Business
Minister Of Communication Directs Aggrieved Nigerians With Complaints Of Increased Phone Call Charges To FIRS
Isa Pantami, Nigeria Communication Minister has directed Nigerians to visit the Federal Inland Service (FIRS) with complaints of increased phone calls and text messaging by the telecoms companies after the introduction of the 7.5% VAT
According to the Minister, the communication ministry he heads is not mandated to handle any tax-related issues and therefore cannot interfere in the matter.
His media aide, Mrs. Uwa Suleiman, issued a press statement which reads in part;
“The office of the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) has been inundated with complaints and inquiries concerning the recent 7.5 percent 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 civilly, 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.
“In the same vein, we also wish to notify the general public that contrary to popular opinion in some quarters, the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy had no prior consultation or awareness about the development. All further inquiries and clarifications may henceforth be directed to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which is the proper institution for tax matters.”
Nigerians have expressed displeasure on social media over the increase in phone calls and text messaging since the implementation of the policy.