The House of Representatives has inaugurated its ad-hoc committee to investigate the alleged deduction of taxes and sundry charges from the earnings of civil and public servants, and multiple bank charges imposed on customers’ accounts in Nigeria. 

Chairman of the committee, Hon. Kelechi Nwogu, at the inauguration Thursday said the committee was established in response to mounting concerns from civil servants and ordinary Nigerians over the growing complexities and inconsistencies in tax deductions and banking fees.

“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.

“These issues have contributed to confusion and a lack of trust among our populace. As their representatives, it is our responsibility to address these concerns directly and ensure that financial practices promote justice and equity,” he said. 

Nwogu described the inauguration as a pivotal step in the National Assembly’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and accountability, noting that the House could no longer ignore the frustrations of citizens who suffer unexplained deductions from their salaries and bank accounts.

“We aim to identify any irregularities, recommend essential reforms, and advocate for the rights of all Nigerians. 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 added.