The escalating tax reform bill controversy has thrown Nigeria’s National Assembly into turmoil and deepened mistrust among lawmakers. Senators and House members now accuse Senate President Godswill Akpabio of deliberately blocking access to certified copies of the law.

According to Peoples Gazette, the alleged embargo has intensified internal suspicion and political tension. Several lawmakers said officials denied their requests on Akpabio’s instruction.

They explained that lawmakers needed the document for verification. They wanted to confirm that President Bola Tinubu signed the same version parliament passed.

Tax Reform Bill Controversy Fuels Internal Crisis

Members of both chambers accused Akpabio of directing the Clerk of the National Assembly to withhold certified copies. The bill had already been transmitted and signed into law.

However, lawmakers insisted transparency must follow presidential assent. Without access, trust within the legislature continues to decline.

Two senators and four House members said the embargo worsened divisions. They claimed the decision stalled oversight responsibilities.

Tax Reform Bill Controversy Triggered by Alteration Allegations

The tax reform bill controversy began after Abdulsammad Dasuki raised an alarm on the House floor. He claimed the public version differed from what lawmakers approved.

Raising a Point of Privilege, Dasuki said the situation breached his legislative rights. He insisted the gazetted law contradicted plenary debates.

He said he reviewed documents for three days. He compared gazetted copies with official Votes and Proceedings.

“I voted, and I now see something different,” Dasuki reportedly said.

Tax Reform Bill Controversy Deepens Over Access Denial

Following his claims, several lawmakers requested the signed law. However, the Clerk’s office repeatedly refused their requests.

Peoples Gazette reported seeing a certified true copy. This development further raised questions about the embargo.

Lawmakers warned that secrecy undermines parliamentary oversight. They argued that withholding documents erodes institutional trust.

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Tax Reform Bill Controversy Sparks Political Reactions

An unnamed ruling party senator described the situation as dangerous. He warned that democracy faces serious threats.

A House member from Oyo State criticised Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. He said leadership failed to address the issue urgently.

Meanwhile, Senate Finance Committee member Sunday Karimi dismissed alteration claims. He described them as rumours.

However, Karimi supported a full investigation. He said Nigerians deserve access to all versions.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar reacted strongly. He described the alleged alterations as treason and an attack on democracy.

As the tax reform bill controversy grows, Nigerians await clarity. Many fear lasting damage to legislative credibility.