Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has advised Nigerians to remain calm and avoid jumping to conclusions over claims that changes have been made to the country’s tax laws.
Oyedele made the call on Wednesday while speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, amid rising public debate and controversy over alleged alterations to sections of the tax legislation. He stressed that speculation based on unverified information does not help the process.
According to him, the National Assembly is in the best position to investigate the matter and determine whether any changes were made and, if so, whether they are significant. He warned against drawing conclusions from documents whose sources are unclear or unconfirmed.
Addressing claims that tax officials had been granted new powers to arrest citizens through law enforcement agencies, Oyedele explained that such authority is not new and already exists under current tax laws. He noted that tax authorities have long had investigative powers and can request assistance from agencies like the police when necessary.
Oyedele emphasised that his position was not to defend or justify any alleged action but to encourage patience and due process. He urged Nigerians to allow lawmakers complete their investigation and present their findings before engaging in further debate or judgment on the issue.
