The House of Representatives has fiercely rebutted claims by its own Minority Caucus that the country’s new tax laws were illegally altered, terming the allegations "belated" and "overtaken by events."

Deputy Spokesman Philip Agbese addressed the media in Abuja, waving the "Certified True Copies" of the acts as proof of the legislature's integrity. The dismissal comes hours after the Minority Caucus, led by Afam Ogene, released a damning report alleging that the gazetted laws differed significantly from what was passed on the floor.

"Storm in a Tea Cup"

"There is no scandal here," Agbese asserted, flanked by committee members. "The Minority Caucus is crying wolf when the sheep are safe in the pen. The Speaker and the Senate President have already released the authentic documents. This report is merely political theatre."

The controversy centers on the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025. The opposition claims "strange clauses" were inserted during the printing process to give the executive unchecked powers. Agbese, however, insists that any discrepancies were clerical errors that have since been rectified.

• The Evidence: The leadership points to the swift release of the Certified True Copies (CTCs) as evidence of transparency. "We have nothing to hide," Agbese stated. "The law is what we passed, nothing more, nothing less."
• The Stakes: The tax reforms are the cornerstone of President Tinubu's economic revival plan. Any cloud over their legitimacy could spook foreign investors and delay implementation, a risk the ruling party is desperate to avoid.

A House Divided

The clash highlights the deepening rift within the National Assembly. The Minority Caucus insists their oversight role is being undermined by a "rubber stamp" leadership. "We will not be silenced," Ogene vowed. "Nigerians deserve to know if their laws are being written in parliament or in dark rooms."

As the debate rages, the ordinary citizen is left confused. Are they paying taxes based on the law of the land, or a doctored version of it? For Agbese, the matter is closed. For the opposition, the fight has just begun.

Ultimately, the courts may be the final arbiter in a dispute that threatens to tarnish the legislative legacy of the 10th Assembly.