The House of Representatives has inaugurated an ad hoc committee to investigate the deduction of taxes and sundry charges from the earnings of civil and public servants, as well as multiple bank charges imposed on customers’ accounts nationwide.
The Speaker of the House, Mr Tajudeen Abbas, who inaugurated the committee, reaffirmed the 10th National Assembly’s commitment to promoting fairness, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s financial system—particularly regarding tax deductions and excessive bank fees burdening citizens.
Represented by the Chief Whip, Mr Usman Bello Kumo, the Speaker said the establishment of the committee reflected the legislature’s responsiveness to the complaints of Nigerians who continue to face arbitrary deductions from their salaries and accounts by both government agencies and financial institutions.
“It is a privilege to stand before you today to inaugurate the House Ad-hoc Committee dedicated to investigating tax deductions and various charges affecting the earnings of our civil and public servants, as well as the excessive bank fees impacting everyday Nigerians,” he said.
Mr Abbas stressed that the House owed it to the people to ensure financial justice, particularly for civil and public servants whose incomes were already overstretched.
“As representatives of the people, we are entrusted with the duty to uphold transparency, accountability, and fairness in our financial systems,” he said.
“The deductions faced by our public servants raise serious concerns. These dedicated individuals, who work tirelessly for our nation, should not bear the burden of unjust financial practices that diminish their earnings.”
He also condemned the growing issue of multiple and unclear bank charges, warning that such practices erode public confidence and exacerbate economic hardship.
“Moreover, the issue of multiple bank charges erodes public trust and places an undue strain on citizens’ finances. The demands for transparency and fairness in banking cannot be ignored; they require our immediate attention,” he stated.
The Speaker urged the newly inaugurated committee to carry out its assignment with integrity, objectivity, and a commitment to the Nigerian people. He called for broad stakeholder engagement to ensure a comprehensive investigation that would lead to meaningful reforms.
“This committee will work diligently and with integrity, engaging stakeholders across various sectors to uncover the truth and provide actionable recommendations for reform that protect the rights of our citizens,” he said.
He further encouraged members to maintain an open mind and spirit of cooperation, adding that the success of their work could help restore Nigerians’ confidence in the financial system.
“I encourage each member to approach this task with collaboration and an open mind. Together, we have the opportunity to enact meaningful change and restore confidence in our financial institutions,” he added.
Mr Abbas emphasised that the assignment formed part of a broader legislative effort to ensure that Nigerians were not unfairly treated by the very institutions meant to serve them.
He warned that the House would not tolerate exploitative practices in either the public or private sectors.
“Let us remember that our efforts aim to ensure that every Nigerian has a voice and that our actions will shape a just financial landscape for future generations,” he said.
The Speaker concluded by calling for unity and dedication in the pursuit of fairness and equity, expressing confidence that the committee’s work would produce lasting reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s financial integrity.
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“In closing, I stress the importance of our unity and dedication as we embark on this vital mission. May our work yield lasting benefits and strengthen the principles of justice and equity in our great nation,” he said.
Committee Chair Vows Transparency and Accountability
The Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee, Mr Kelechi Nwogu, said the committee was established in response to growing concerns from civil servants and ordinary Nigerians over the increasing complexities and inconsistencies in tax deductions and banking fees.
He described the inauguration as a significant step in the National Assembly’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and accountability, noting that lawmakers could no longer ignore the frustrations of citizens experiencing unexplained deductions from their salaries and bank accounts.
“It is with great honour and a profound sense of duty that I stand before you today as the Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee to investigate the deduction of taxes and sundry charges from the earnings of Civil and Public Servants, as well as the multiple bank charges on customers’ accounts in Nigeria,” he said.
According to him, the committee’s creation was a direct response to citizens’ concerns and aims to ensure that financial practices across government and the banking sector align with principles of justice and equity.
“These issues have contributed to confusion and a lack of trust among our populace,” he stated.
“As their representatives, it is our responsibility to address these concerns directly and ensure that financial practices promote justice and equity.”
Mr Nwogu outlined the committee’s mandate to include investigating the nature and application of taxes, levies, and salary deductions affecting civil and public servants, as well as probing potential cases of non-remittance of deducted funds.
The committee will also examine various bank charges, including the Value Added Tax (VAT) applied to existing fees, with the aim of ensuring transparency and fairness.
“We aim to identify any irregularities, recommend essential reforms, and advocate for the rights of all Nigerians,” he said.
“We will evaluate the impact of these deductions and charges to ensure they are just and transparent. As we progress, we are prepared to make far-reaching and decisive recommendations, not minding whose ox is gored, and will not hesitate to utilise the full authority of the Legislature when necessary.”
He called for full cooperation from all stakeholders—government agencies, banks, regulatory bodies, and civil society organisations—and urged committee members to work collaboratively and objectively to produce a report that delivers real change.
“I encourage each of you, Honourable Members, industry experts, and stakeholders, to engage in this investigation with open minds and a collaborative spirit. Your contributions are essential as we seek effective solutions,” he said.
Mr Nwogu stressed that the committee’s work would not end with identifying problems but would focus on proposing actionable reforms to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s financial systems.
“We encourage participation from a diverse range of stakeholders throughout this process. Together, we can facilitate the establishment of a more equitable financial environment for all Nigerians,” he said.
He commended the Speaker and members of the 10th Assembly for their foresight in constituting the committee, describing the assignment as one of national importance.
“In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to the Honourable Speaker and the House of Representatives for entrusting us with this significant assignment, as well as to all stakeholders in attendance today. Your commitment will play a crucial role in advancing our nation’s progress,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the investigation would lead to meaningful policy and institutional changes to enhance financial fairness and accountability in Nigeria.
“Let us collaborate to ensure that this investigation culminates in meaningful changes that enhance the well-being of every Nigerian citizen,” he added.