Amanze Chinonye
A House of Representatives minority caucus committee has confirmed that several tax reform laws signed into law by President Tinubu were altered without legislative approval, raising serious constitutional and legal concerns, Prime Business Africa reports.
Led by Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, the committee’s interim report revealed that changes to four tax reform acts effective January 1, 2026 were made after the National Assembly had passed them and the President assented. The investigation was prompted by Rep. Abdulsamad Dasuki, following public alarm over discrepancies between the publicly gazetted laws and the versions lawmakers approved.
Key alterations identified include:
Join our WhatsApp Channel- Reduced reporting thresholds: Individual tax reporting was lowered from ₦50 million to ₦25 million, diverging from the National Assembly-approved text.
- New appeal requirements: Taxpayers are now required to pay 20% of disputed tax amounts before filing appeals, a provision absent from the legislature’s version.
- Weakened oversight: National Assembly supervision powers in the Revenue Service Act were removed, undermining legislative checks.
- Expanded enforcement powers: The gazetted laws introduced arrest and asset seizure provisions without judicial approval.
- Changes in tax computation rules: Certain sections, including petroleum taxes, mandate computation in US dollars, contrasting with the approved text.
The panel confirmed that at least three different versions of the tax laws were in circulation, raising fears of illegal encroachment on legislative authority and potential abuse in tax administration.
READ ALSO : KPMG Highlights Critical Flaws, Oversights in Nigeria’s 2026 Tax Reforms
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has ordered the release of Certified True Copies of the four tax acts to clarify discrepancies and restore legislative authority. Activists warn that failure to resolve the issue could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s tax system and the separation of powers.
The House panel’s full investigation is ongoing, and its findings are expected to inform possible legislative or judicial actions to safeguard constitutional procedures in tax law implementation.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
