A public dispute broke out on Sunday between Senator Ali Ndume and House of Representatives Deputy Spokesman Philip Agbese over claims that recently signed tax laws may differ from the versions approved by the National Assembly.
The disagreement followed comments by Ndume, who questioned whether some sections of the legislation were altered during the final stages of harmonisation and publication before presidential assent.
The senator, who represents Borno South, had earlier raised concerns in a television interview, saying there appeared to be differences between the copy passed by lawmakers and the one eventually signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
Reacting to the allegation, Agbese dismissed the claims and described them as misleading. He said all legislative procedures were properly followed and insisted there was no attempt to tamper with the laws.
According to him, the House of Representatives remains committed to transparency and accountability, adding that a committee had already been established to review concerns surrounding the legislation.
Agbese warned that unverified allegations could weaken public trust in the National Assembly and distract from efforts to reform Nigeria’s tax system.
Ndume, however, responded strongly, accusing the deputy spokesman of overstepping his role and speaking prematurely on a matter still under review.
He argued that only the committee set up to investigate the issue has the authority to determine whether there were discrepancies between the approved version and the gazetted copy.
The senator also maintained that his concerns were based on a clause-by-clause review of parliamentary records and not a personal attack on any lawmaker.
Ndume said even small changes in wording could affect legal interpretation, stressing that a detailed comparison of both versions should be carried out to reassure Nigerians.
The controversy adds fresh attention to the tax reform package, which has generated debate since it was passed by lawmakers.
Some legislators, including Ndume and House member Abdussamad Dasuki, had previously called for an independent review of the documents to ensure the integrity of the legislative process.
While Senate and House leaders have repeatedly said due process was followed, the decision to launch a House inquiry suggests lawmakers want to settle the matter publicly.
The committee is expected to determine whether any differences emerged during harmonisation, gazetting or transmission of the bills for presidential approval.
