Abuja – Allegations of a ₦300 million bribe have split the ranks of a group planning a protest against Nigeria’s new tax laws scheduled for January 20, 2026.
A faction within the movement accused its leadership of plotting to use the protest as a cover to ignite unrest, calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the bribery claims.
Faction Moves to Cancel Protest
The dissenting faction announced its withdrawal from the planned demonstration, alleging that the protest was being sponsored by the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) to destabilize the country.
Leader of the faction, Mustapha Abudulahi, in a statement, urged security agencies to arrest the head of the January 20 protest to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
“We have broken away from the group planning to stage a protest against the Tax Reforms laws on January 20, 2026 following the commencement of their implementation on January 1, 2026. Our decision is based on serious concerns,” Abudulahi said.
Allegations of Bribery and Political Sponsorship
Abudulahi alleged that some members of the group had collected a ₦300 million bribe, insisting that the EFCC must investigate the matter. He further claimed that the protest leadership was being influenced and sponsored by the ADC with the aim of causing public disorder and pushing for regime change.
“We have it on good authority that the ADC, having faced the reality of making no significant impact in the 2027 general election, sees this as an opportunity to create anarchy which could possibly lead to regime change,” he stated.
Call for Responsible Civic Action
The faction explained that it initially supported the protest when the intention was to urge government reconsideration of the tax reforms, given the economic hardship facing Nigerians. However, it said the movement had now been hijacked for financial and political gain.
“Our withdrawal from the protest is a call for unity, maturity and patriotism. Nigeria’s economic recovery requires collective sacrifice and responsible civic action,” Abudulahi added.
The group reiterated its appeal to the EFCC and security agencies to investigate and prosecute those allegedly involved in bribery and plans to incite violence.
