Tinubu’s Tax Reforms Ignite Firestorm: “Forged Laws” Claims vs. Jan 1 Rollout – Oyedele Doubles Down Amid National Outrage

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Defying a storm of forgery allegations and calls for suspension from opposition leaders, labour unions, and civil society, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, has firmly declared that Nigeria’s controversial new tax laws will take effect as planned on January 1, 2026.

In a video update shared by the official President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre on X, Oyedele emphasised that the reforms are “designed to provide relief for the majority of Nigerians,” promising significant tax breaks for low-income workers, small businesses, and even larger enterprises.

“The plan to commence the remaining two laws on January 1st, 2026, will go ahead because these reforms are meant to promote economic growth, inclusivity, and shared prosperity,” he stated, expressing optimism after briefing President Tinubu directly.

The four landmark laws – the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act – were signed by President Tinubu in June 2025 following heated debates in the National Assembly.

Two have already commenced, while the remaining pair, focusing on tax rates and administration, are slated for the New Year rollout.

Oyedele highlighted key benefits: 98% of workers will pay little to no PAYE tax, 97% of small businesses will be exempt from corporate income tax, VAT withholding, and other levies, with reduced burdens for big firms.

Preparations, including capacity building and system upgrades, have been underway for months, he added, describing the reforms as “a work in progress” aimed at long-term revenue growth through fairness, not higher rates.

Yet the announcement comes amid explosive accusations that the gazetted versions differ from those passed by lawmakers, sparking fears of constitutional sabotage.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi – who decried a shift “from padded budgets to forged laws” – and groups like the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have demanded immediate suspension and probes.
Critics point to alleged insertions, such as requirements for 20% deposits on tax appeals or expanded powers for authorities, claiming these undermine citizens’ rights.

The House of Representatives has launched an investigation, with some members urging re-gazetting, while civil society organisations warn of eroded public trust and potential regional inequalities favouring southern states.

Oyedele has consistently dismissed the claims, labelling circulating documents “fake” or drafts and urging patience for legislative reviews. The government insists no alterations occurred post-passage and welcomes National Assembly collaboration if needed.

As the deadline looms, the debate has polarised Nigeria, with X buzzing over economic relief versus democratic integrity. Proponents hail the overhaul as essential for modernising a fragmented tax system, while detractors fear it exacerbates hardship amid inflation and unemployment.

With banks gearing up for new compliance rules and investigations ongoing, the January 1 launch could mark a pivotal moment for Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda – or fuel deeper political division.