By Ishaya Ibrahim
The former chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Babatunde Fowler, made a last minute effort to retain his position for another term, TheNiche can authoritatively report. But the passionate plea fell on deaf ears.
Prior to the announcement of his replacement on Monday, December 9, Fowler wrote to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, pleading for a reappointment. Apparently, his plea was ignored as his replacement was announced shortly after.
This was revealed in a letter titled, “RE: NOTIFICATION OF EXPIRATION OF TENURE AS EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, FEDERAL INLAND REVENUE SERVICE,” obtained by TheNiche.
The letter which was personally signed by Fowler reads in part: “I wish to present myself for reappointment for a second term.”
Fowler’s tenure of four years ended the same day he wrote the letter but the constitution allows its renewal at the discretion of the president.
In the letter addressed to the SGF, Fowler writes; “I write to notify the secretary of the federation that my first tenure as the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) ends today 9th of December, 2019.
“In view of the above, I wish to present myself for reappointment for a second term. This is consistent with the provisions of the FIRS Establishment Act 2007 and would grant me the opportunity to consolidate and build on the achievements we have recorded in the four years.
“Please find attached the highlight of my achievements during my first tenure in the office.
“I will like to put on record my gratitude to Mr. President for the opportunity to serve the Nation. I am also thankful for your support in the course of the discharge of my duties.
“Please accept as always, the assurance of my highest regards.”
However, a statement released by the Senior Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, revealed that Tunde Fowler was directed to hand over to the most senior director on the FIRS board.
Mohammad Nami was Monday announced the new Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and report also unveiled the approval of the composition of a new board for FIRS by President Buhari.
The new board will be subject to the Senate’s confirmation.
On Tuesday, the president forwarded a letter to the Senate requesting Nami’s confirmation.
