The House of Representatives has inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to investigate rising complaints of excessive tax deductions from civil and public servants, as well as multiple and unclear bank charges imposed by commercial banks.
The committee, chaired by Rivers State lawmaker Kelechi Nwogu, was inaugurated in Abuja on Thursday by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
Many Nigerians have continued to express frustration over unexplained deductions from their salaries and bank accounts.
Public workers, in particular, say overlapping taxes, levies and fees from different government agencies are further reducing their already limited income.
In response, the House set up the Nwogu-led committee to review the concerns and engage relevant bodies including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and commercial banks.
Speaking during the inauguration, Nwogu said the move was “a pivotal step” toward ensuring transparency and fairness in Nigeria’s financial system.
He stated that the committee will assess the legality of the deductions affecting workers and also examine cases of non-remittance.
“We aim to identify irregularities, recommend reforms, and advocate for the rights of all Nigerians,” he said.
He added that the committee “will not shy away from making far-reaching recommendations, not minding whose ox is gored.”
Speaker Abbas, represented by Chief Whip Bello Kumo, said the committee’s establishment demonstrates the 10th National Assembly’s commitment to protecting citizens from unfair financial practices.
He noted that arbitrary deductions and multiple bank charges weaken trust in financial institutions and worsen economic hardship.
“This committee must work diligently and engage stakeholders across all sectors to uncover the truth and provide actionable recommendations,” Abbas said.