The House of Representatives on Tuesday ordered the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, out of a closed-door meeting after lawmakers accused him of responding to their inquiries with arrogance.

According to a lawmaker who spoke with Channels Television, tensions rose during the session when Adedeji was questioned over delays in releasing funds for zonal intervention projects. Members had, for weeks, expressed frustration that stalled disbursements were leaving contractors unpaid and critical constituency projects abandoned.

The insider said lawmakers became increasingly displeased with the FIRS chairman’s demeanour, describing his responses as dismissive and disrespectful. This led to the collective decision to ask him to leave the session.

During the meeting, Finance Minister Wale Edun reportedly assured the lawmakers that the 2024 budget would be fully funded within 48 hours. He also disclosed that implementation of the 2025 budget would be extended to April, with an immediate commencement of 30% funding and an additional 20% to be released before the end of December.

Lawmakers, however, insisted that these commitments must be honoured before they proceed with any further budgetary actions. They also declared that the House would not accept the presentation of the 2026 budget until all outstanding financial issues are adequately addressed as promised by the minister.