By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja
The House of Representatives Minority Caucus has raised alarm over alleged illegal and unconstitutional alterations to recently passed tax reform laws, warning that the changes threaten legislative authority and Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The controversy followed a motion by Hon. Abdulsamad Dasuki, who highlighted discrepancies between tax bills passed by the National Assembly and versions later published as official gazettes.
In response, the Minority Caucus, led by Hon. Kingsley Chinda, described the development as an attack on democracy and set up a seven-member ad-hoc committee on January 2, 2026, chaired by Hon. Afam Victor Ogene.
Presenting its interim report, the committee confirmed that alterations were made to the gazetted laws, particularly the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025, noting that three different versions were in circulation.
The panel cited reduced tax thresholds, a new mandatory 20% deposit before appeals, expanded enforcement powers without court orders, changes to the definition of federal taxes, and dollar-denominated tax computation for petroleum operations—none of which were approved by lawmakers.
The committee also expressed concern that oversight provisions empowering the National Assembly were removed from the Nigerian Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, undermining checks and balances.
Describing the situation as “legislative impunity,” the panel said it may seek more time to conduct a deeper probe to ensure accountability and protect democratic governance.
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