The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has demanded the immediate rescission of a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and a French company over tax collection and administration.
In a press statement issued on Sunday by Sokoto State branch Chairman , Dr. Muhammad Mansur Aliyu (Esq.), MURIC described the agreement as an unacceptable intrusion into Nigeria’s sovereign fiscal space, warned that tax collection is a core attribute of national sovereignty that must not be outsourced to foreign interests.
The organisation condemned the MoU as a form of neo-colonial economic control, arguing that allowed a foreign firm to play a role in Nigeria’s tax administration undermined Nigeria’s independence and national interest.
MURIC also raised alarm over allegations that newly enacted tax laws currently in force contain provisions that were allegedly not passed by the National Assembly. According to the group, if such claims are verified, it would amount to legislative fraud and a serious assault on democratic governance and the rule of law.
The organisation warned that any post-passage alteration of legislation represents a grave constitutional breach and a national embarrassment that must not be ignored.
Based on these concerns, MURIC made three key demands: the immediate cancellation of the MoU involving FIRS and the French company; the suspension of the enforcement of the controversial tax laws pending clarification of their legislative authenticity; and the establishment of an independent investigative committee to probe the alleged manipulation of the tax legislation.
MURIC proposed that the investigative panel should include retired justices, civil society representatives, and other relevant stakeholders, with a mandate to identify and recommend prosecution of any individuals or institutions found culpable.
The organisation stressed that democracy thrives only where due process, transparency, and respect for legislative authority are upheld, warning that any attempt to undermine the National Assembly erodes Nigeria’s constitutional order.
MURIC further cautioned that failure by the Federal Government to act decisively could deepen public distrust and expose the country to international ridicule.
Dr. Aliyu reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of Nigeria’s national dignity.
