NATIONAL ASSEMBLY BREAKS SILENCE ON TAX LAWS CONTROVERSY, ORDERS URGENT REVIEW AND GAZETTING
The National Assembly has moved swiftly to address growing public controversy surrounding the passage, presidential assent, and gazetting of four major tax-related laws signed in 2025.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Clerk to the National Assembly, the management confirmed it is aware of widespread commentary questioning the harmonisation process between the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as the versions of the laws assented to by the President and published in the Official Gazette.
The Acts under scrutiny are the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025; Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025; Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025; and the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025.
According to the statement, Director, Information, Mr. Bullah Audu Bi-Allah made available to newsmen on Friday, the leadership of the National Assembly has commenced an internal review through its relevant committees, working alongside the Assembly’s management.
The review, it said, is strictly administrative and procedural, and is being carried out in line with the 1999 Constitution, the Acts Authentication Act, the Standing Orders of both Chambers, and established parliamentary practice.
As part of immediate steps to ensure transparency and accuracy, the leadership has directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to collaborate with relevant agencies to facilitate the proper publication of the Acts in the Official Gazette. Certified True Copies of the assented laws will also be made available to stakeholders and members of the public upon request.
The National Assembly stressed that the action is solely intended to authenticate and clearly reflect the legislative decisions already taken, insisting that the review does not suggest any defect or illegality in the lawmaking powers exercised by either Chamber.
“The review is confined to institutional processes and procedures,” the statement noted, adding that it does not prejudice the roles or authority of any other arm of government.
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutionalism, separation of powers, and due process, the National Assembly assured Nigerians that any procedural or administrative gaps identified would be addressed in accordance with the law.
The statement further urged the public to refrain from speculation while internal processes are ongoing, as the leadership of both Chambers pledged continued transparency, accountability, and faithful discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
Further updates, the Assembly said, will be communicated as necessary.
