Telecom: Pantami dodges 7.5% VAT controversy, directs inquires to FIRS

ITREALMS: 

In what should have become another episode of controversy has been dodged by the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) over the 7.5 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on voice calls and Short Messaging Services (SMS), reports ITREALMS.

He promptly directed those complaining to his office to route such to the office of the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), insisting that his office has no mandate over VAT.
ITREALMS gathered that Pantami’s office has been inundated with complaints and enquiries concerning the recent 7.5 per cent Value Added Tax (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,” he said in a press statement endorsed by his spokesperson, Uwa Suleiman.

“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 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,” Uwa said.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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