- He warned that proceeding with implementation without resolving the controversy could erode public confidence
- He argued that halting the process temporarily would demonstrate responsible leadership and commitment to transparency
- Ndume stressed that unresolved allegations would only deepen resistance to the reforms
Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to temporarily suspend the enforcement of the controversial Tax Reform Acts billed to take effect in January, amid rising disputes over their authenticity.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Ndume made the appeal in Abuja on Wednesday, following allegations that the tax laws were altered after being passed by the National Assembly, a development that has triggered widespread concern among opposition figures and civil society groups.
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The Borno South senator advised the President to establish a special investigative panel to verify the integrity of the laws and determine whether any post-legislative modifications occurred.
He warned that proceeding with implementation without resolving the controversy could erode public confidence and raise serious legitimacy questions.
Ndume stressed that unresolved allegations would only deepen resistance to the reforms, noting that professional bodies such as the Nigerian Bar Association and groups from the North had openly demanded a suspension of the laws pending investigation.
He argued that halting the process temporarily would demonstrate responsible leadership and commitment to transparency, adding that both chambers of the National Assembly should independently examine the matter.
Meanwhile, NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), has also cautioned that the controversy threatens Nigeria’s legislative credibility, calling for a transparent probe to restore public trust.
The dispute intensified after a lawmaker alleged that the gazetted version of the tax reforms differed from the document approved by lawmakers.
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