By Abubakar Yunusa
The Coalition of Northern Groups has criticised the Federal Government’s plan to begin implementation of the newly enacted tax reform laws on January 1, 2026, citing unresolved concerns over alleged alterations to the legislation.
The group spoke in a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi.
The CNG said it was concerned by claims that the versions of the tax laws passed by the National Assembly differed from those later transmitted for gazetting.
According to the coalition, reviews by legal experts, lawmakers and independent observers raised questions about whether the gazetted laws fully reflected what lawmakers approved.
“The discrepancies are not minor drafting errors; they are substantive alterations that affect legislative authority and due process,” Charanchi said.
The group alleged that implementing the laws amid the controversy could worsen economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
It also questioned the urgency of the January 1, 2026 start date, noting ongoing public debate and economic challenges.
The CNG urged the Presidency to suspend implementation of the reforms pending clarification of the issues raised.
It called for the public release of the versions of the bills passed by the National Assembly and those gazetted.
The coalition further demanded an independent legislative and judicial review of the alleged alterations.
“The controversy surrounding the alleged post-passage changes remains unresolved and constitutionally significant,” Charanchi said.
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