Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a fresh legislative process on key tax reform laws introduced by the Tinubu administration following confirmation that the gazetted versions differ from what lawmakers approved.
In a statement released Sunday night, Atiku said the Senate’s admission that the published Tax Act does not reflect the version passed by the National Assembly raises serious constitutional issues. His intervention comes as the Federal Government prepares to implement the remaining tax laws from January 1, 2026.
Atiku maintained that any law published in a form not approved by both chambers is legally defective and cannot be corrected through administrative action. He argued that gazetting is only a procedural step and cannot amend or validate a flawed legislative process, warning that changes made after passage amount to a breach of constitutional order.
The News Chronicle gathered that concerns within the National Assembly have deepened after lawmakers confirmed discrepancies in the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act, both scheduled to take effect in 2026.
Atiku also criticised reported plans to rush a fresh gazette while legislative reviews are ongoing, saying such moves undermine parliamentary oversight and could set a dangerous precedent.
The controversy has intensified pressure on the government, as unresolved legal flaws may expose the reforms to court challenges and delay implementation, despite assurances from the executive that the rollout will proceed as scheduled.
