Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has urged caution regarding the Tax Reform Bills, calling on Nigerians to thoroughly review their contents before passing judgment.
The transmission of the bills by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly has sparked intense debate across the country.
The northern region has been particularly vocal in its criticism, with some governors and lawmakers opposing the Federal Government’s proposals.
Speaking at the Government House in Owerri, Imo State, on Thursday, Uzodimma suggested that many critics had not taken the time to study the provisions of the bills.
“Many of those criticising the bills have not taken time to understand their merits or otherwise,” the governor stated.
“I would therefore call on everyone to carefully examine the bills, identify areas of concern, and provide constructive criticism. Otherwise, these are economic bills designed to raise government revenue, harmonise the tax system, and bring efficiency and order to the nation’s taxation regime.”
Calls for Objective Assessment
The governor urged Nigerians not to politicise the bills, addressing claims, particularly from northern critics, that the reforms could disadvantage the region or exacerbate poverty.
“I believe the bills should not be subjected to politics or blackmail. They should be evaluated objectively to determine their true impact,” Uzodimma said.
“These are well-articulated documents that deserve proper scrutiny. As executive bills from the president, they should not be trivialised.”
Uzodimma, who chairs the Progressives Governors’ Forum, emphasised that the bills aim to streamline taxation.
“One key objective is to establish a harmonised system where various taxes can be paid through a single window. This is a modern approach adopted globally to enhance tax efficiency.
“If there are aspects of the bills that are problematic, they should be identified so solutions can be reached collaboratively,” he added.
Progress in the Senate
The bills have already passed their second reading in the Senate, with a committee established to review them in collaboration with the office of the Attorney General of the Federation.
Despite calls for their withdrawal, Senate President Godswill Akpabio maintained that deliberations on the bills would continue, dismissing attempts to pressure the Senate as undemocratic.
“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills. Any attempt to intimidate the Senate is undemocratic,” Akpabio stated.
“These are executive bills, and only the executive can withdraw them. We remain committed to fulfilling our legislative responsibilities.”