Atiku, NBA Urge FG to Suspend New Tax Laws Over Alleged Post-Passage Changes

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) have urged the Federal Government to immediately suspend the enforcement of Nigeria’s newly introduced Tax Reform Acts. Their call follows allegations that the laws were modified after they had already been approved by the National Assembly.

The concern was raised amid growing public debate surrounding the integrity of the legislative process. According to the NBA, the alleged post-passage alterations pose a serious threat to the credibility of lawmaking in the country and could undermine constitutional principles.

Speaking through an official statement released on Tuesday, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), emphasized that the controversy surrounding the tax legislation has far-reaching implications. He warned that any uncertainty regarding how laws are enacted could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.

Osigwe stressed that transparency and accountability must remain central to Nigeria’s legislative framework. He explained that citizens must be assured that laws passed by elected representatives reflect exactly what was debated, approved, and transmitted for implementation, without undisclosed changes.

The NBA President called on the relevant authorities to institute a thorough and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the passage of the Tax Reform Acts. According to him, such an investigation is necessary to determine whether the laws currently presented for implementation are identical to the versions approved by lawmakers.

He further stated that until all concerns are properly examined and resolved, the Federal Government should halt every step toward implementing the tax reforms. This, he noted, is essential for restoring trust in the legislative process and safeguarding constitutional order.

“The Nigerian Bar Association believes it is crucial that a full, open, and transparent investigation be carried out to explain the issues surrounding the enactment of these laws and to rebuild public confidence in the legislative system. Until these matters are completely reviewed and addressed, the implementation of the Tax Reform Acts should be suspended without delay,” Osigwe stated.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also aligned with this position, reinforcing calls for caution and due process. His stance reflects broader concerns among stakeholders who believe that adherence to constitutional procedures is fundamental to democratic governance and economic policy credibility.

As discussions continue, the issue has drawn national attention, with legal experts, policymakers, and civil society groups closely monitoring the government’s response to the allegations.