Amanze Chinonye
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised alarm over what he described as a grave threat to Nigeria’s constitutional order, alleging discrepancies between laws passed by the National Assembly and those eventually published and enforced by the executive.
In a statement obtained by Prime Business Africa on Saturday, Obi said Nigeria had moved from the long-criticised practice of budget padding to what he termed the “forging of laws,” warning that the development undermines taxpayers’ rights, access to justice and public trust in governance.
According to him, the issue goes beyond administrative error and amounts to a constitutional crisis, as documented provisions allegedly appeared in enacted laws without legislative approval.
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Obi specifically pointed to controversial enforcement measures he said were never passed by the House of Representatives, including a mandatory 20 per cent deposit before tax-related appeals can be heard in court, the sale of assets without judicial oversight, and the granting of arrest powers to tax authorities.
“These are not minor adjustments. They are coercive powers with serious implications for citizens’ rights and the rule of law,” he said.
Obi expressed concern over what he described as the silence of the Presidency despite allegations of forgery, institutional sabotage and abuse of process, questioning who authorised the disputed alterations.
He called for full disclosure of the legislative process, insisting that Nigerians must be clearly informed about what was passed by lawmakers, what was signed by the President and what was ultimately gazetted as law.
“We cannot continue to demand more taxes from citizens while confidence in governance continues to collapse,” Obi stated.
He urged national leaders to recommit to due process, transparency and accountability, warning that no country can make sustainable progress where laws are manipulated and leadership remains silent in the face of serious allegations.
He concluded by reiterating his call for governance anchored on the rule of law and institutional integrity.
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.
