The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Nigeria’s chapter of Transparency International, has raised concerns over claims that the Presidency assented to a tax law that is different from the version passed by the National Assembly.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation warned that if the allegation is confirmed, it would represent a serious breach of the Constitution, legislative procedure, and public trust.
CISLAC said Nigeria’s law-making process is clearly set out in the Constitution and cautioned against any changes made after a bill has been passed by parliament.
According to the group, “Nigeria’s law-making process is clearly defined by the Constitution, stressing that any alteration of a bill after parliamentary passage undermines democratic governance and the principle of separation of powers.”
The organisation also pointed out that tax laws have far-reaching effects on citizens and the economy.
It stressed that “taxation has direct implications for citizens, businesses, sub-national governments, and the overall economy.”
CISLAC warned that uncertainty or lack of transparency around tax legislation could damage investor confidence and raise concerns about accountability and possible abuse of executive power.
CISLAC described the situation as especially worrying because of the extensive public consultations that took place before the law was passed.
It noted that the process involved taxpayers, civil society groups, professional bodies, the private sector, labour unions, local governments, and technical experts.
According to the organisation, any unilateral changes made outside this process would undermine public trust and violate the principle that citizens should have a voice in how they are taxed.
The group also expressed concern that doubts about the authenticity of the tax law are emerging at a time when a new tax regime is expected to begin.
It warned that introducing a disputed tax framework could worsen the hardship Nigerians already face due to rising cost of living, inflation, reduced purchasing power, and limited access to basic services. CISLAC said such a move could deepen inequality, discourage compliance, and fuel public resentment.
It stressed that tax reforms must be based on clarity, legality, fairness, and social sensitivity.
It warned that any tax system introduced without transparency, proper communication, and legislative certainty weakens voluntary compliance and damages the social contract between the government and citizens.
As part of its recommendations, the organisation called on the Presidency to immediately publish the exact version of the tax law that was assented to, alongside the authenticated copy passed by the National Assembly, to allow public verification. It also urged the National Assembly to use its oversight powers to confirm whether the assented law truly reflects the will of lawmakers.
CISLAC said any discrepancy found should be treated as unconstitutional and resolved through lawful means, including re-transmitting the correct bill or seeking judicial interpretation.
It further called for an independent review by relevant institutions, including the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and, if necessary, the judiciary.
The organisation added that the controversy highlights the need to strengthen safeguards between the legislative and executive arms of government.
It recommended measures such as digital tracking of bills, public access to enrolled laws, and more transparent assent procedures.
CISLAC stressed that the issue is not about partisan politics but about protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions. It warned that allowing one arm of government to unilaterally alter laws passed by another sets a dangerous precedent.
The group urged all parties to act with openness, restraint, and respect for the Constitution, adding that Nigerians deserve laws that reflect due process, the public interest, and the decisions of their elected representatives. CISLAC said it will continue to monitor developments and engage stakeholders to promote accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.
