BREAKING: NASS to Clarify Alleged Discrepancies in Gazetted Tax Acts

The National Assembly (NASS) has taken decisive action in response to nationwide concerns about alleged discrepancies in the recently gazetted tax laws, which are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026. Lawmakers say they will move swiftly to clarify the disputed provisions, addressing confusion, legal challenges, and public outcry that has surrounded the implementation of the new tax regime.

The announcement follows widespread debate from political actors, civil society groups, and legal bodies — including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar — who claimed that the version of the tax laws released to the public differs from what the National Assembly originally passed. This controversy sparked legal challenges and urgent calls for a review.

What the National Assembly Is Doing

In a statement from the leadership, lawmakers said that they are:

Reviewing the original text passed by both chambers,

Comparing it with the gazetted versions published in the official government gazette,

Seeking clarification from relevant federal agencies, and

Preparing to hold hearings if necessary to explain, clarify, and, if required, amend the laws to reflect the Assembly’s intent.

Leadership in both the Senate and House of Representatives has scheduled committee sessions that will examine the differences, ensuring that the nation’s constitutional process for law-making is preserved.

Why This Matters

The controversy over the tax laws has thrust Nigeria’s constitutional procedure for passing legislation into the spotlight. Critics argue that any alteration made after the National Assembly passed the bills — without express legislative approval — could undermine the authority of the legislature and erode trust in democratic institutions.

Key concerns include:

1. Rule of Law and Legislative Integrity

If the gazetted laws differ from what was passed by NASS, questions emerge about who changed the text and whether due process was followed.

2. Taxpayer Certainty

With implementation set for January 1, millions of Nigerians and thousands of businesses were preparing to comply with the new tax regime. Uncertainty over the actual legal text complicates planning and compliance.

3. Constitutional Balance of Power

The National Assembly’s move to clarify discrepancies reinforces the importance of separation of powers — ensuring that the executive cannot unilaterally change laws enacted by the legislature.

What Nigerians Are Saying

Public reactions have been mixed:

Some Nigerians are relieved that lawmakers are taking a second look, as confusion over tax obligations has caused anxiety nationwide.

Others worry that revisiting the laws could delay implementation and create further uncertainty.

Legal experts and civil society advocates argue that clarity is paramount before enforcement begins, to avoid litigation, confusion, and potential abuse of authority.

Social media platforms have been rife with commentary, with many users calling for greater transparency and insisting that officials must be held accountable if errors or unauthorized changes are confirmed.

Next Steps

The National Assembly has indicated that it will take the following actions:

Publish a comprehensive comparison report highlighting any differences between the passed and gazetted versions of the tax acts.

Hold public hearings that invite stakeholders — including tax practitioners, legal experts, and civil society representatives — to weigh in on contentious clauses.

Work with the Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and legal counsel to resolve discrepancies before enforcement and compliance deadlines.

Lawmakers want to reassure the Nigerian public that governance must be done within the framework of the Constitution — especially when it affects millions of taxpayers and critical revenue systems.

Conclusion

The National Assembly’s move to clarify alleged discrepancies in the gazetted tax acts is a defining moment for Nigerian governance in 2026. It reflects the tension between law, policy, and public trust — reminding citizens that legal certainty is a cornerstone of democracy.

As the process unfolds, Nigerians from all sectors will be watching closely, eager for transparency, clarity, and answers before the new tax regime takes full effect.