The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has begun nationwide mobilisation to protest the implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws, which took effect on January 1, 2026. NANS has declared January 14, 2026, a National Day of Action, with a planned peaceful protest at Unity Fountain, Abuja, marching to the Presidential Villa.
NANS President, Olushola Oladoja, criticised the government’s decision to proceed with implementation despite unresolved allegations that the gazetted tax laws differ from versions passed by the National Assembly. He described the move as undemocratic and called for an immediate suspension of the reforms pending clarification and public engagement.
The controversy has drawn reactions from multiple stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and lawmakers, who have echoed concerns over discrepancies in the laws. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) warned that the reforms could face legal challenges, arguing that no law should commence without “clean, authentic copies.” He also threatened to sue over what he described as discriminatory tax exemptions favouring wealthy companies.
Adding to the pressure, a civic group, House to the Rescue, offered a ₦3 million reward to any legislator who can produce a verifiable copy of the authentic tax law, accusing the government of enforcing laws without transparency or legitimacy.
Despite the uproar, an FCT High Court declined to halt the implementation, ruling that it lacked the power to stop a law already signed and gazetted without concrete evidence of wrongdoing. The court held that the tax laws would remain in force pending the determination of a substantive suit scheduled for January 9, 2026.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has maintained that no substantial issue justifies suspending the reforms, insisting the implementation will proceed as planned.
