The Budget Office of the Federation has denied claims suggesting that Nigeria’s recently passed Tax Reform Acts were modified after receiving legislative approval. The agency warned that spreading such unverified claims could undermine trust in democratic governance.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Budget Office addressed concerns raised by the House of Representatives Minority Caucus, stressing that the integrity of enacted laws is central to constitutional democracy, and not merely a procedural formality.
Signed by Director-General Tanimu Yakubu, the statement described suggestions of secret modifications to laws already debated, passed, certified, and assented to as a serious threat to the nation’s legal foundations. The office emphasized that unverified claims could erode public confidence in the predictability and stability of Nigeria’s legal system.
The agency further cautioned against spreading misinformation, noting that rumours can be as damaging to democratic institutions as actual misconduct. Governance, it said, cannot rely on assumptions or documents of uncertain origin, because once public trust is lost, it is difficult to restore.
Highlighting the shared responsibility of government and citizens, the Budget Office stressed the need for transparency, accuracy, and adherence to due process, particularly in matters of public finance where confidence in tax laws is essential.
Welcoming the National Assembly’s decision to investigate the allegations, the agency affirmed that formal inquiries remain the correct and lawful method for resolving disputes, rather than speculation or viral narratives.
Regarding public access to legislation, the office acknowledged the right of Nigerians and the business community to consult clear and authoritative legal texts. It clarified, however, that a law’s legitimacy is established only through certified legislative records and official publication—not through informal copies circulating online.
The statement underscored the importance of separation of powers, warning that claims of governing under “fake laws” could severely damage trust in democratic institutions. Nonetheless, it emphasized that legislative oversight is a constitutional duty, not antagonism toward the executive branch.
From an economic perspective, the Budget Office highlighted that legal clarity is critical for accurate revenue forecasting, macroeconomic stability, credible budgeting, and sustained investor confidence. While not the custodian of legislative documents, the office noted that uncertainty around tax provisions can have significant implications for economic planning.
To enhance public trust, the agency proposed measures including the creation of a centralized repository for verified legal texts, structured access to Certified True Copies for stakeholders, timely explanations when discrepancies arise, and strict alignment between implementing regulations and authenticated laws.
In response to calls for suspending the tax reforms, the Budget Office warned that excessive caution should not result in inaction. The agency stressed that effective tax reforms are crucial for reducing dependence on borrowing, curbing inflationary financing, and easing indirect economic pressures on vulnerable populations.
The statement concluded by describing taxation as a shared democratic responsibility between citizens and the state, emphasizing that voluntary compliance relies on transparency and trust. It urged political leaders to protect institutions alongside political interests and encouraged citizens and businesses to rely on verified sources, avoiding the spread of unconfirmed information.
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