Peter Obi Criticizes FG Silence Over Alleged Changes to Tax Legislation

Peter Obi has raised concerns over alleged alterations to Nigeria’s tax laws, questioning the integrity of the process through which recently enacted legislation was finalized and published.

In a statement shared via his verified X handle, the former LP presidential candidate said Nigeria was witnessing what he described as a troubling shift from controversies over budget padding to allegations of laws being altered after legislative approval.

He warned that discrepancies between bills passed by the National Assembly and versions assented to and published by the executive pose serious constitutional and governance concerns.

Obi said the issue goes beyond administrative error, arguing that it reflects a deeper institutional problem that undermines the rule of law and public trust. “We have transitioned from a Nigeria where budgets are padded to one where laws are forged — changes that impact taxpayers’ rights and, most importantly, access to justice,” he stated.

He further expressed alarm over what he described as the insertion of enforcement and coercive provisions that were not approved by the House of Representatives, including requirements for a mandatory 20 per cent deposit before tax-related appeals can be heard, the sale of assets without judicial oversight, and the extension of arrest powers to tax authorities.

According to Obi, such measures fundamentally alter citizens’ rights and the balance of power in tax administration.

The former presidential candidate also criticised what he described as the silence of the Presidency on allegations surrounding the alterations, saying the absence of an official explanation raises further questions. “Perhaps most disturbing is the silence of the Presidency on a matter involving allegations of forgery, institutional sabotage, and abuse of process. Who made these alterations?” he asked.

Obi called for full disclosure on the tax legislation process, urging authorities to clarify what was passed by lawmakers, what was signed into law, and what was ultimately gazetted.

He warned that asking Nigerians to shoulder higher tax obligations without transparency risks further eroding confidence in governance. “We cannot continue to ask citizens to pay more taxes while trust in governance collapses,” he said.

He concluded by urging adherence to due process, transparency and accountability, arguing that sustainable national development depends on respect for the rule of law. “No nation can thrive where laws are forged and silence replaces leadership,” Obi added.