House Deputy Spokesperson Dismisses Ndume's Tax Law Claims as 'Sheer Mischief'
Hon Philip Agbese, the deputy spokesperson of the House of Representatives, has strongly dismissed allegations by Senator Ali Ndume that recently passed tax laws were falsified, describing the claims as "sheer mischief" and misleading. Agbese insisted that due legislative processes were strictly followed and that transparency remains a top priority in the National Assembly.
Agbese Warns Against Politicizing Tax Legislation
Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Friday, January 30, Agbese cautioned against politicizing the tax laws, urging clarity over speculative narratives. He emphasized that the issues raised by Senator Ndume had already been addressed through institutional channels, and warned that such allegations could create unnecessary tension and public distrust in the legislature.
"It is sheer mischief to suggest the tax laws were falsified," Agbese stated firmly. He stressed that it was incorrect for anyone to imply that the National Assembly altered or concealed provisions of the tax laws, noting that both chambers are committed to accountability.
Background of Ndume's Allegations
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, had claimed during an interview on Arise Television's Prime Time that there were at least two versions of the tax law gazette. He argued that what President Bola Tinubu signed into law differed from what was passed by the National Assembly, and faulted Senate President Godswill Akpabio for dismissing his concerns instead of launching a probe.
In response, Agbese highlighted that the House had proactively set up a committee to examine concerns surrounding the tax legislation, making insinuations of cover-up or legislative fraud unfounded. "This is exactly why the House set up a committee: to clarify the facts. Nigerians should not be misled into thinking that lawmakers are acting in bad faith," he explained.
Federal Government's Stance on Tax Law Changes
Earlier, the federal government had reacted to the controversy, with Taiwo Oyedele, chairman of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, downplaying the impact of any changes in the tax reforms. Speaking in Lagos on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Oyedele stated that a few modifications made to the newly passed tax laws would not have any major effect, as they do not affect the core provisions of the legislation.
Agbese reiterated that lawmaking must be built on facts and due process, warning that speculative narratives could distract from efforts to reform Nigeria's tax system in the public interest. He called for a focus on constructive dialogue and the existing legislative review mechanisms to address any genuine errors or ambiguities.
