
The Digest:
The African Democratic Congress has called for the immediate suspension of Nigeria's newly enacted tax laws, accusing the Federal Government of forging key provisions and inserting unauthorized clauses that grant the executive sweeping coercive powers. In a strongly worded statement, the opposition party claimed a forensic review revealed deletions of accountability measures and the addition of enforcement powers without judicial oversight.
Key Points:
- ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi alleged "criminal insertions" that allow the government to arrest and seize the property of non-compliant taxpayers
- The party demanded a full legislative review and investigation into the alleged alterations
- It warned that the changes violate the constitutional principle of separation of powers
- The call follows similar objections from lawmakers and opposition figures like Peter Obi
- ADC described the alleged acts as revealing "the criminal mindset of a government that has no ethical boundaries."
- The four tax bills were signed into law by President Tinubu in June 2025
- Implementation is scheduled for January 2026 amid growing controversy
- Government officials, including Taiwo Oyedele, have defended the laws, denying that new taxes are being introduced
Sources: Channels TV, Tribune