Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the alleged alterations to Nigeria’s new tax laws, describing the move as “treason” against the Nigerian people. The controversy surrounds discrepancies between the tax bills passed by the National Assembly and the version gazetted by the Presidency.
According to reports, the Presidency made significant changes to the tax bills after they were approved by lawmakers, including granting tax authorities arrest powers and allowing property seizure without court orders. These changes have been criticized for undermining the legislative process and violating the country’s constitutional democracy.
Atiku outlined several key alterations made by the Presidency, including new coercive powers granted to tax authorities, increased financial burdens on citizens, and the removal of accountability mechanisms. He argued that these changes would transform tax collectors into quasi-law enforcement agencies, stripping Nigerians of due process protections and creating financial barriers for citizens and businesses.
The former Vice President expressed concern that the government’s actions would lead to aggressive extraction of resources from an already struggling population, rather than investing in infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment to expand the tax base organically. He noted that Nigeria’s poverty rate remains high, unemployment is devastating families, and inflation is eroding purchasing power, yet the government is choosing to impose punitive taxation rather than supporting citizens to become more productive.
Atiku called on the Executive to suspend the implementation of the tax law, the National Assembly to rectify the illegal alterations, and the Judiciary to strike down the unconstitutional provisions. He also urged civil society and Nigerians to reject the assault on democratic principles and demand governance that serves the people. Additionally, he requested the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the illegal alteration of the laws.
The controversy highlights the need for transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s legislative process. The alleged alterations to the tax laws have significant implications for the country’s economy and its citizens, and it is essential that the government prioritizes the welfare of its people rather than pursuing short-term fiscal goals. The outcome of this situation will be closely watched, as it has the potential to impact Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the rule of law.
