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Ndume says National Assembly version differs from law signed by Tinubu
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Senator warns discrepancies threaten legislative integrity and democracy
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House of Representatives begins probe amid growing public distrust
Former Senate Chief Whip and Borno South senator, Ali Ndume, has raised alarm over Nigeria’s newly signed tax law, alleging that the version approved by the National Assembly is not the same as the one signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interview on Arise Television, Ndume described the law as “faulty”, warning that discrepancies between the legislative and executive versions pose a serious threat to transparency, democratic governance and the rule of law.
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The lawmaker said concerns over the legislation had deepened following an admission by the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reform that multiple versions of the tax law are currently in circulation.
According to him, the development raises questions about secrecy in government and undermines public confidence in the lawmaking process.
“My concern is not just the discrepancies, but the secrecy. This is a government of the people, by the people and for the people. Why hide anything?” Ndume said.
He stressed that the matter goes beyond technical drafting errors, accusing the executive arm of eroding trust in governance. Ndume disclosed that the House of Representatives has already commenced an investigation into the alleged discrepancies.
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“What we passed is not what the President signed. This is not something that can be buried. You cannot build on disputed ground,” he warned.
The senator rejected suggestions that contentious sections of the law could be selectively ignored during implementation, insisting that once a bill is passed and signed, no authority has the power to alter it unilaterally.
Ndume also criticised what he described as the growing arrogance of some policy actors, noting that while Nigerians are not opposed to taxation, they are frustrated by the loss of trust and lack of transparency.
Turning to politics, the Borno South lawmaker warned that rising discontent in Northern Nigeria could have significant implications for the 2027 general elections if left unaddressed.
He said electoral victory cannot be manufactured through declarations, stressing that public acceptance remains the ultimate test of leadership.
Despite his criticism, Ndume said President Tinubu still has an opportunity to regain public trust, particularly by addressing insecurity and improving governance outcomes.
However, he identified the President’s “inner circle” as the administration’s biggest challenge, alleging that key decisions are being taken by individuals who lack a proper understanding of Nigeria.
Ndume warned that continued public dissatisfaction, if ignored, could translate into electoral backlash, political realignment or other forms of resistance.