Senator Ali Ndume has reiterated his strong opposition to the tax reform bills, expressing concern over the haste with which the Presidency and some lawmakers are pushing for their passage, which he believes raises suspicions.
The tax reform bills, which were passed for a second reading in the Senate on Thursday, have sparked significant controversy since being introduced by President Bola Tinubu. Ndume has been one of the most vocal critics, emphasizing that the bills should be reconsidered. The National Economic Council has also advised the President to withdraw the bills, but President Tinubu has insisted they undergo the legislative process.
In an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Ndume, the lawmaker representing Borno South, reaffirmed his stance, urging the President to heed the National Economic Council’s advice and withdraw the bills for further consultation. “It’s not that we should discard the bills entirely, but we need more consultations. Why the rush? That’s a major concern,” he said.
To support his argument, Ndume pointed to the Petrol Industry Bill (PIB), which he described as more critical than the tax bills. He noted that it took years for the PIB to pass through the National Assembly, even though it was introduced when he was in the House of Representatives, and wasn’t passed until he had moved to the Senate.
Timing was another key issue for Ndume. He argued that such significant bills should not be introduced at a time when Nigerians are already struggling. “The opposition isn’t because we don’t want to pay taxes—we’ve always paid taxes. But the timing is wrong. We should introduce these bills when people are living, not just surviving,” he stated.
Ndume likened the proposed tax reforms to taking something away after offering it, warning that the timing could potentially harm the government’s relationship with the people. He emphasized that his opposition stems from a desire for President Tinubu’s success, rejecting suggestions that his stance is intended to undermine the President.
On Thursday, the Senate passed the four tax reform bills for their second reading via voice votes. The bills include a proposal to establish the Joint Revenue Board, the Tax Appeal Tribunal, and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman as part of Tinubu’s broader tax reform agenda. These proposed measures aim to streamline revenue administration and resolve tax-related disputes in Nigeria.