The House of Representatives committee investigating alleged alterations in Nigeria’s tax laws has pledged to conclude its work promptly and submit its findings without delay.
The committee chairman, James Faleke Betara, raised concerns that certain provisions contained in recently gazetted tax laws may differ significantly from what lawmakers originally passed.
He warned that any confirmed discrepancies would constitute a serious violation of legislative procedure and the rule of law
In a statement released on Wednesday by the committee’s media unit, Betara said members unanimously agreed to fast-track the investigation in order to protect legislative integrity and sustain public confidence in the lawmaking process.
“The committee has resolved to conclude the investigation and present its report to the House within the shortest possible time,” the statement quoted him as saying.
Betara assured that the probe would be conducted with transparency and diligence, adding that the committee’s findings and recommendations would be laid before the House immediately upon completion.
The investigation comes amid growing scrutiny of Nigeria’s tax framework, especially laws amended or introduced through recent Finance Acts.
Over the years, successive Finance Acts have revised key fiscal statutes, including the Companies Income Tax Act, the Value Added Tax Act, and Customs and Excise laws, as part of broader efforts to modernise revenue administration.
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Lawmakers argue that the alleged alterations raise serious questions about the credibility of the legislative process, the authenticity of laws enforced by government agencies, and the possible legal and financial implications for taxpayers relying on officially published statutes.
The House has reiterated that only bills duly passed by the National Assembly and signed into law by the President carry legal authority, warning that any changes made outside this constitutional framework would undermine governance.
The committee’s report is expected to establish whether discrepancies exist, identify their source, and recommend safeguards to prevent future breaches of legislative procedure.