Gazette Furore: NBA, Atiku Seek Suspension of Tax Reform Laws
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have called on the Federal Government to suspend the recently gazetted Tax Reform Acts, citing alleged discrepancies between the versions passed by the National Assembly and those published in the official gazette.
In separate reactions, the NBA expressed concern over claims that certain sections of the laws were altered in the gazetted copy, describing the development as a serious threat to constitutionalism, legislative integrity, and the rule of law. The association said any law in force must strictly reflect what was debated, approved, and passed by the legislature.
According to the NBA, the alleged alterations—if proven—would amount to an unconstitutional exercise that undermines democratic governance. The body called for an immediate suspension of the implementation of the tax laws pending a transparent review and clarification of the disputed provisions.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar echoed similar concerns, urging the Federal Government to halt the enforcement of the laws until the controversy surrounding the gazetted version is resolved. He warned that allowing potentially altered laws to stand could erode public trust in the legislative process and set a dangerous precedent.
Both the NBA and Atiku called for an independent verification of the versions passed by the National Assembly against the gazetted copies, insisting that any inconsistencies must be corrected in line with due process.
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government and relevant authorities had yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
