By Emmanuel Kwada
The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Tax Reform Bills, despite reports suggesting that deliberations on the bills have been suspended or withdrawn. Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, made this clear during plenary on Thursday, stating that the upper chamber remains focused on its mandate to represent Nigerians’ interests and will not be intimidated by external pressures.
Akpabio dismissed reports in the media suggesting that deliberations on the bills have been suspended or withdrawn, emphasizing that the Senate cannot be bullied.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,” he said.
Any reform that we are convinced serves the interest of Nigerians will proceed
The Senate leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, also 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 “We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills.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 said.
The Senate has taken further legislative actions on the bills, including the formation of a special committee representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to engage with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, to address contentious issues. Public hearings and consultations with stakeholders, including governors, religious leaders, and business leaders, are also planned to resolve any uncertainties.
We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills
The Tax Reform Bills, which were forwarded to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in October, have met serious resistance, especially from the Northern part of the country.
However, the Senate remains committed to ensuring that the bills serve the best interests of Nigerians. As Akpabio emphasized, “We are committed to transparency and addressing all concerns.”
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