Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Nigerian Bar Association have raised serious concerns over alleged unconstitutional alterations to Nigeria’s recently enacted Tax Reform Acts.
(DDM) – Both Atiku and the NBA described the reported developments as a grave threat to constitutional democracy and the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative process.
They warned that the alleged actions amount to a brazen assault on the rule of law and democratic governance.
Atiku Abubakar, in a strongly worded reaction, accused certain actors of undermining the sanctity of the National Assembly.
He alleged that changes were made to the tax reform laws outside the proper legislative procedure.
According to Atiku, any post-passage alteration of laws without due process is unconstitutional.
He described such actions as dangerous and capable of eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
The former vice president warned that Nigeria’s democracy cannot survive if laws are manipulated after enactment.
He said taxation laws are sensitive and directly affect the economic lives of millions of Nigerians.
Atiku insisted that transparency and strict adherence to constitutional provisions must guide all legislative actions.
The Nigerian Bar Association echoed similar concerns in its intervention.
The NBA said the alleged alterations cast serious doubt on the credibility of the lawmaking process.
In an earlier statement, the NBA warned that the integrity of the National Assembly was being called into question.
The association stressed that legislative procedures are clearly outlined in the Nigerian Constitution.
It said any deviation from those procedures threatens the foundation of constitutional governance.
The NBA described the alleged alterations as unacceptable in a democratic society.
According to the association, laws passed by parliament must reflect exactly what was debated and approved.
It warned that tampering with legislation after passage could amount to legislative fraud.
The NBA said such actions weaken confidence in the separation of powers.
It added that citizens must be able to trust that laws are made transparently and lawfully.
Atiku Abubakar went further to describe the situation as bordering on treason against the Nigerian state.
He argued that undermining the legislative process is an attack on the sovereignty of the people.
He called for the immediate suspension of the disputed Tax Reform Acts.
Atiku said the suspension should remain in place until a thorough investigation is conducted.
He urged the National Assembly to assert its authority and protect its institutional integrity.
The former vice president also called on the judiciary to remain vigilant.
He said the courts have a responsibility to defend the constitution when other institutions falter.
The Tax Reform Acts were recently enacted as part of efforts to overhaul Nigeria’s tax system.
The reforms were presented by the Federal Government as measures to expand the tax base and boost revenue.
Authorities said the laws would modernise tax administration and reduce reliance on oil income.
However, the reforms have been controversial since their passage.
Legal experts have raised questions about transparency and stakeholder engagement.
The NBA said it has received complaints from legal practitioners and concerned citizens.
It noted that uncertainty surrounding the laws could lead to prolonged legal battles.
Such disputes, the association warned, could disrupt tax administration nationwide.
Civil society groups have also expressed concern over the alleged alterations.
They warned that allowing such practices to go unchecked could set a dangerous precedent.
Analysts say the controversy reflects deeper issues of trust in Nigeria’s governance system.
They note that economic hardship has already heightened public sensitivity to taxation issues.
Any perception of illegality, they argue, could fuel resistance and non-compliance.
The Federal Government has yet to issue a detailed response to the allegations.
Officials have maintained that the tax reforms were lawfully enacted.
However, pressure continues to mount for greater transparency.
Observers say a clear explanation from the National Assembly is urgently needed.
They argue that silence could further damage public confidence.
Atiku and the NBA both insist that democratic processes must be protected at all costs.
They warned that Nigeria cannot afford to compromise the rule of law.
As calls for suspension grow louder, the controversy continues to dominate public discourse.
The outcome of the dispute may shape future debates on lawmaking and accountability in Nigeria.
