A storm erupted after Atiku Abubakar accused Xpress Payments of monopolising Nigeria’s tax system.
Consequently, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) quickly dismissed the claim as misleading and politically motivated.
Atiku’s Xpress Payments Monopoly Claim
Moreover, FIRS spokesperson, Aderonke Atoyebi, explained that Atiku’s comments unnecessarily politicise administrative and technical processes.
She emphasised that no private company controls government revenue collection exclusively.
Multi-Channel Payment System
Currently, FIRS operates a multi-channel framework that includes Quickteller, Remita, Etranzact, Flutterwave, and XpressPay.
These platforms, therefore, create competition and simplify tax payments for Nigerians nationwide.
Under the Treasury Single Account framework, the government appointed Xpress Payments Solutions as a Collecting Agent.
As a result, taxpayers can pay company income tax, VAT, and withholding tax online or at banks.
However, Atiku warned that the appointment risks channeling public funds to politically connected intermediaries.
Read Also: Sachet Alcohol Ban May Trigger Liquidity Crisis — Analyst
He also compared the move to a “Lagos-style revenue cartel” and criticised the lack of consultation.
Furthermore, he argued that private involvement threatens transparency and government institutions.
Transparency And Reform
In response, FIRS clarified that PSSPs do not collect fees or take percentages of revenues.
All funds, therefore, flow directly into the Federation Account without diversion or private control.
Additionally, the framework encourages multiple providers, accountability, and innovation within Nigeria’s fintech sector.
Atoyebi noted that FIRS onboards PSSPs transparently, fairly, and openly to all operators.
Meanwhile, ongoing tax reforms under the Presidential Committee aim to modernise Nigeria’s economy.
Finally, the agency urged politicians to avoid spreading misinformation about routine administrative processes.
Consequently, FIRS reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and strengthening the revenue system nationwide.
