NBA Oji River Branch Calls Tax Rules For Lawyers ‘Unacceptable’, Says Lawyers Can’t Provide Tax Certificates For Unearned Fee

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Oji River Branch has strongly opposed new directives requiring lawyers to provide tax clearance certificates when filing court processes in Enugu State.

 In a recent letter, the Chief Judge of Enugu State directed lawyers to attach evidence of income tax payment to all court processes as a way to improve tax compliance. The NBA Oji River Branch responded by describing the directive as “unacceptable in its entirety,” arguing it discriminates against lawyers and violates rules governing legal practice in Nigeria.

The objection creates further friction between the local judiciary and legal profession over attempts to improve tax enforcement. The NBA Oji River Branch criticized state authorities for failing to consult lawyers before imposing the drastic policy.