House Panel Moves to Probe Alleged Alteration of Tax Laws

The House of Representatives committee investigating claims that Nigeria’s tax laws were changed after being passed by lawmakers says it will submit its report quickly.

Committee chairman, Muktar Betara, said the panel is determined to complete the investigation without delay and report back to the House.

The probe followed allegations by lawmaker Abdussamad Dasuki, who claimed that some tax laws currently gazetted contain provisions different from what the National Assembly approved. He warned that any confirmed changes would violate due process and the rule of law.

“The committee has resolved to conclude its assignment and submit its report to the House within the shortest possible time,” Betara said.

Meanwhile, former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has asked President Bola Tinubu to suspend the implementation of the disputed Tax Reform Acts set to begin in January.

Ndume warned that pushing ahead with the laws despite the controversy could damage public trust.

“The President should suspend the implementation until the issues are resolved. You can’t build on nothing,” he said.

The Nigerian Bar Association has also called for a transparent investigation, saying the controversy raises serious concerns about how Nigeria’s laws are made and implemented.