The Senate has reiterated its dedication to progressing with the Tax Reform Bills, emphasizing that no part of the legislative process has been halted or withdrawn.
During Thursday’s plenary session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio affirmed that the upper chamber remains committed to representing the interests of Nigerians and will not be swayed by external pressures.
In response to a point of order raised by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Akpabio dismissed media reports claiming that discussions on the bills had been suspended or withdrawn.
Dismissing any attempts to pressure the chamber, the Senate President also stated that, “the Senate cannot be bullied. Any reform that we are convinced serves the interest of Nigerians will proceed. These bills contain provisions that are in the best interest of the public.”
The Senate leader in his remarks, equally cautioned against misinformation from social media or media reports, urging the public to focus on facts.
“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills. Any attempt to intimidate the Senate is undemocratic. These bills are executive communications, and only the executive arm can withdraw them. We remain steadfast in our legislative responsibilities.”
He again underscored the legislature’s independence, stating that, “We don’t take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how highly placed.”
Senator Akpabio emphasized that the Senate is committed to conducting a thorough review of the bills before it and will not be rushed in the process. He highlighted that additional legislative steps have been taken, including the creation of a special committee comprising representatives from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This committee will engage with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, to address contentious issues.
The Senate President stressed the importance of public hearings and consultations with key stakeholders, such as governors, religious leaders, and business executives, to ensure all concerns are adequately addressed.
“If six weeks are insufficient, we will extend the time. We are committed to transparency and addressing all concerns,” he said.
On Wednesday, the Senate set up a committee to to review the controversial Tax Reform Bills that are before the National Assembly.
According to Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, who presided over plenary on Wednesday, the Committee which is headed by Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) will meet with the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to address grey areas in the bills and revert to Senate before public hearing.
Barau noted that the executive arm of the government agreed with the Senate that there is need to resolve all the issues causing disagreements in the bills.
Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu forwarded four Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly in October, it has met serious resistance especially from the Northern part of the country.