FCT-IRS Cracks Down On Tax Defaulters

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has sealed the premises of two businesses in Abuja for failing to file tax returns and settle outstanding liabilities despite multiple notifications.

The enforcement operation, carried out under a court order, is part of the agency’s efforts to ensure tax compliance and boost internally generated revenue for the FCT Administration.

Addressing journalists during the exercise, Barr. Festus Tsavsar, Acting Director of Legal Services and Head of the Enforcement Team, stated that the affected businesses—Phase 3 Telecom and Cilantro Village, both located in Maitama—had repeatedly ignored demand notices, invitations for dialogue, and reminders from the FCT-IRS over the past three years.

“These taxpayers have deliberately refused to meet their tax obligations despite several opportunities given to them. We obtained court orders to seal their premises, and this action will remain in place until they settle their outstanding liabilities,” Tsavsar stated.

He further emphasized that business owners are legally prohibited from unsealing their premises without going through the proper legal channels.

“By law, no one is allowed to unseal their premises without clearance from the FCT-IRS. If they attempt to do so, they will be committing an offence. The only way forward is for them to pay their tax debts, after which we will approach the court to lift the enforcement order,” he warned.

One of the affected businesses, Phase 3 Telecom, owes millions of naira spanning over three years.

“We have issued multiple demand notices to them over the past three years, but they refused to respond. Even after attending meetings and making commitments to pay, they still failed to comply,” he said.

Cilantro Village was also penalized for failing to file its annual tax returns for more than three years, leading to the enforcement.

Tsavsar stressed that this is just the beginning, as the enforcement team will continue sealing more premises in the coming weeks.

“We want all tax defaulters in Abuja to know that we are coming after them, one by one. If you are a taxpayer in the FCT, it is in your best interest to comply with tax laws by filing your returns and paying your dues on time,” he warned.

While corporate tax filings were due by January 31, individual taxpayers have until March 31 to comply before similar enforcement actions are taken against them.

The agency urged businesses and residents to take advantage of the remaining days to fulfil their tax obligations, warning that failure to do so could result in the closure of their businesses.

“Tax compliance is not optional; it is a civic duty. The revenue generated is essential for the development of the FCT, including infrastructure, healthcare, and other public services. We advise all taxpayers to do the right thing before enforcement measures reach them,” Tsavsar advised.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Blessing Nyor