Malami, tax reforms, petrol regulators dominate Nigerian newspapers

Major Nigerian newspapers on Thursday focused on unfolding political and economic controversies, including allegations of altered tax reform laws, the resignation of key petroleum regulators, and a fresh investigation involving former attorney-general of the federation, Abubakar Malami.

Several dailies led with developments in the petroleum sector following the reported resignation of Farouk Ahmed, chief executive officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and Gbenga Komolafe, head of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission. The exits have added momentum to an already tense debate around regulatory reforms in the oil and gas industry.

Malami confirms receiving EFCC invitation, says he will honour summons

EFCC raid and tax reform dispute deepen tensions

The Punch reported that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission raided Malami’s office and residences in Abuja and Kebbi State, escalating scrutiny around the former justice minister. The newspaper also linked the development to broader concerns over governance and accountability amid sweeping fiscal reforms.

Daily Trust highlighted growing controversy surrounding the proposed implementation of the tax reform law. Abdussamad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives, alleged that the version of the bill passed by lawmakers differed from the copy later gazetted, raising questions about legislative integrity. The paper also reported a deadly attack on miners in Plateau State, where at least 12 people were killed and others declared missing following an assault in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

Courts, security, and budget battles

Vanguard reported that a Delta State High Court issued an ex-parte injunction restraining the inspector-general of police and the Nigeria Police Force from resuming nationwide enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy. The paper also noted a call by the Nigeria Labour Congress for the arrest and prosecution of individuals allegedly funding insecurity across the country.

According to THISDAY, the Office of the National Security Adviser denied claims that it supplied arms to a socio-cultural group, dismissing the reports as false. The newspaper also reported that President Bola Tinubu forwarded a ₦43.56 trillion appropriation repeal and re-enactment bill to the National Assembly, a move aimed at harmonizing Nigeria’s fiscal calendar and avoiding overlapping budget cycles.

Revenue concerns and policy reversals

The Guardian warned that resistance to tax reforms and declining revenue could threaten the federal government’s 2026 fiscal projections. The newspaper also reported that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation directed the suspension of actions related to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol and 200ml pet bottles, pending further consultations.

The Nation reported that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara said he met about ₦600 billion in state funds upon assuming office after the expiration of emergency rule. The paper also noted that the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation revoked a house sale contract involving a former senator over alleged non-compliance with agreed terms.