A planned anti tax protest has collapsed following internal disputes among organizers with one faction alleging that another group received a three hundred million naira bribe to sabotage the movement. The allegations have thrown the protest into controversy and prompted calls for an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
According to statements released by the aggrieved faction the protest was originally intended to challenge aspects of the new tax regime perceived as unfair. However they claim that secret payments were made to certain leaders to withdraw support and disrupt mobilization efforts.
The accused faction has denied the allegations describing them as false and politically motivated. They insisted that the protest was suspended due to logistical challenges and security concerns.
Despite the denials the bribery claims have gained traction on social media fueling public skepticism about protest movements and leadership credibility. Civil society groups have expressed concern that such allegations undermine genuine advocacy and public trust.
Calls for an EFCC probe have intensified with activists demanding transparency and accountability. They argue that if proven true the alleged bribe represents an attempt to suppress civic expression and manipulate public opinion.
The EFCC has yet to issue an official statement but legal experts note that any formal petition could trigger preliminary investigations.
The collapse of the protest has shifted attention from the tax policy itself to questions about integrity leadership and the politicization of dissent.
