By Muhammad Mamman
Prominent elders from Northern Nigeria have called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately cancel a tax information exchange agreement between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Government of France, warning that the deal is detrimental to Nigeria’s sovereignty and economic interests.
The elders, operating under the umbrella of a socio-political group, expressed deep concern over the agreement, which they said was entered into without adequate consultation or transparency. According to them, the arrangement could expose sensitive financial data of Nigerian citizens and businesses to foreign authorities, while offering little tangible benefit to the country.
In a statement released on Monday, the group argued that Nigeria already possesses sufficient legal and institutional frameworks to manage tax administration and combat financial crimes without external interference. They cautioned that allowing a foreign government access to domestic tax information could undermine national security and weaken public trust in state institutions.
The elders also questioned the timing of the agreement, noting that Nigeria is grappling with economic reforms, rising living costs and widespread public discontent over taxation. They warned that the deal could further strain relations between the government and citizens, particularly in the North, where economic pressures remain acute.
Calling on President Tinubu to intervene, the group urged him to direct the FIRS to suspend and review the agreement in line with Nigeria’s national interest. They stressed that any international tax cooperation must be subjected to thorough legislative scrutiny and broad stakeholder engagement before implementation.
The FIRS has yet to issue an official response to the concerns raised. However, the elders maintained that the President’s swift action on the matter would demonstrate his commitment to transparency, equity and the protection of Nigeria’s economic sovereignty.
