The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of forgery concerning key provisions in the recently passed tax laws. This accusation follows concerns raised in the House of Representatives about discrepancies between the tax laws passed and those later gazetted.
Hon. Abdulsammad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto) initially brought the issue to light, prompting further discussions among other lawmakers. Hon. Muhammad Bello Fagge and Hon. Yusuf Shitu Galambi emphasized that such discrepancies could undermine the constitutional order and erode public trust in the government.
In a statement issued by ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party has conducted a forensic review that allegedly reveals significant alterations. They claim essential accountability provisions have been removed, while new provisions granting the government broader enforcement powers have been inserted. This, the ADC contends, enables the government to arrest individuals and seize property without court intervention for non-compliance with tax laws.
The ADC described the changes as “criminal insertions,” warning that they reflect a totalitarian mindset, where the president seeks to concentrate power illegitimately. They argue that such actions violate the constitution, which stipulates that only the legislature has the authority to make laws.
The ADC is calling for an immediate suspension of the implementation of these tax laws, set to take effect in January 2026, and the initiation of investigations into the alleged alterations. They urge for accountability among government officials involved in these actions, asserting that such conduct jeopardizes democracy and the principle of separation of powers.
In their statement, the ADC made clear its opposition to any tax measures likely to exacerbate hardships for citizens and businesses, advocating instead for legislative integrity and ethical governance.
