Tax reform bills not suspended — Akpabio

The Senate has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advancing the Tax Reform Bills, clarifying that no part of the legislative process has been halted or withdrawn.

During Thursday’s plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the upper chamber’s dedication to representing Nigerians’ interests, declaring it will not succumb to external pressures.

Akpabio, while addressing a point of order raised by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, refuted media reports claiming that deliberations on the bills had been suspended.

“The Senate cannot be bullied. Any reform that serves the interest of Nigerians will proceed,” Akpabio stated firmly, adding that the proposed bills include provisions designed to benefit the public

Senate Leader Bamidele also cautioned against misinformation, urging Nigerians to rely on verified facts instead of speculative media reports.

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“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills,” Bamidele said. “Attempts to intimidate the Senate are undemocratic. These bills are executive communications, and only the executive arm can withdraw them. We remain steadfast in our legislative responsibilities.”

Bamidele further underscored the independence of the legislature, stating, “We don’t take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how highly placed.”

Akpabio assured that the Senate would approach the bills with due diligence. To ensure comprehensive scrutiny, the chamber has formed a special committee representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to collaborate with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, on resolving contentious issues.

“Public hearings and consultations with stakeholders, including governors, religious leaders, and business leaders, are crucial to addressing uncertainties,” Akpabio said, adding, “If six weeks are insufficient, we will extend the time. We are committed to transparency and addressing all concerns.”

On Wednesday, the Senate established a committee to review contentious aspects of the Tax Reform Bills. Presided over by Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, the session mandated the committee, chaired by Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), to meet with the AGF Fagbemi and provide feedback before public hearings.

Barau highlighted that the executive arm agreed with the Senate on the need to resolve areas of disagreement in the bills. Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted four Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly in October, they have faced significant opposition, particularly from the Northern region.

This collaborative approach underscores the Senate’s resolve to ensure the reforms align with the nation’s best interests.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE