A coalition of nine Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has tendered a public and unreserved apology to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, after new findings and clarifications cleared him of all allegations of corruption, money laundering, and abuse of office earlier circulated during a protest.
The apology followed a recent protest by the Coalition of Anti-Corruption Civil Society Organisations for Development (COCSOD) at the National Assembly, where the group had accused top FIRS officials of financial misconduct.
In a joint statement issued in Abuja, the leaders of the CSOs expressed deep regret over the embarrassment caused to Dr Adedeji, his family, and the FIRS as an institution, noting that the earlier protest was misguided.
The statement was jointly signed by Dr Emeka Mbonu, President, Organisation of Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria; Osondu Chinelo, Convener, Citizens Right International; Dr Oluaseun Ayotomiwa, National Coordinator, Advocacy for Good Governance; Amb. Eyitayo Olukayode, Coordinator, Centre for Leadership and Educational Development; and Hajia Zainabu Mohammed, Convener, Africa Patriotic Development Mission.
Others are Dr Usman Yahaya, Executive Director, Zero Tolerance and Anti-Corruption Network; Princess Doubra Abadi-Ingobo, Coordinator, Network Against Poverty in Africa Campaign; Eduvie Samuel Efe, Executive Director, Campaign Against Corruption International; and Comrade Otokpa Philip, Convener, Network for Advancement of Democracy in Africa.
“We have now confirmed that the information we relied upon during the protest was inaccurate and not properly verified,” the coalition stated. “We sincerely apologise to Dr Zacch Adedeji for any harm, embarrassment, or misunderstanding caused by the claims in the protest statement. We equally commend his exemplary leadership, integrity, and the reforms he has championed at the FIRS.
“Since assuming office over two years ago, Dr Zacch Adedeji has repositioned the Federal Inland Revenue Service as a model of transparency, innovation, and professionalism. His tenure has been defined by visionary reforms, fiscal discipline, and the digital transformation of Nigeria’s tax system.
“Under his leadership, the FIRS has consistently surpassed its revenue targets. In 2023, it generated ₦12.36 trillion against a target of ₦11.55 trillion, and in 2024, the agency collected ₦21.7 trillion, exceeding its ₦19.7 trillion projection. Between September 2023 and August 2025, the Service realised ₦46 trillion in total tax revenue, representing 115 per cent of its combined targets.
“These achievements were driven by innovative reforms, enhanced staff productivity, and the introduction of technology-driven tax solutions that improved compliance and reduced leakages.
“Under Adedeji’s leadership, the FIRS launched several digital tools, including TaxPro-Max, e-Invoicing, and USSD tax payment services, automating over 80 per cent of manual processes and simplifying taxpayer engagement.
“He also introduced the National Single Window Project, which harmonises government revenue processes and enhances trade facilitation at ports. In addition, the creation of One-Stop-Shop offices nationwide has improved accessibility and reduced bottlenecks for taxpayers.
“Dr Adedeji’s management style is anchored on service, accountability, and inclusion. He prioritises taxpayer satisfaction, vendor relations, and staff welfare, creating a culture of transparency and excellence within the Service,” the statement reads.
The coalition appreciated Nigerians for their understanding and reaffirmed its dedication to promoting accountability and justice. It also pledged that its future advocacy efforts would be guided strictly by verified and factual information.
