December 10, (THEWILL) – Senators representing the South East have called for broader consultations before the passage of the Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration at the National Assembly.
The caucus, led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South, APGA), made this known after an emergency meeting held on Monday at the National Assembly complex.
President Bola Tinubu had on October 13 submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, following recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele.
The proposed bills aim to overhaul Nigeria’s tax laws and improve fiscal administration.
Senator Abaribe emphasized that while South East lawmakers are not opposed to the bills, they believe extensive consultations with their constituents and other stakeholders are crucial for crafting a more inclusive and equitable tax framework.
He said, “As representatives of our people, we have read through the bills and want to share our understanding with our constituents and state governments across the 15 Senatorial Districts in the South East.
“We are not against the bills but believe wider consultations are necessary for a more balanced outcome.”
The bills, which have already passed second reading in the Senate, have sparked controversy nationwide, with northern governors and other stakeholders voicing opposition.
In response, the Senate announced plans to convene a special meeting to address concerns raised by various groups.
In a communique signed by Senators Tokunbo Abiru, Victor Umeh, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Kenneth Eze, and others, the South East caucus reiterated their support for reforms while urging an inclusive approach.
The communique read, “The proposed legislation must foster a fair, equitable, and inclusive tax system that aligns with global best practices.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the final framework benefits all Nigerians, especially small businesses, by addressing issues such as multiplicity of taxes, shallow tax bases, and corruption in tax administration.”
The Nigerian Senators Forum, also weighing in, highlighted the potential benefits of the bills, including simplifying tax administration, fostering business growth, and plugging loopholes in fiscal policies.
“The Tax Reform Bills represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to streamline Nigeria’s tax system and support sustainable economic growth,” the forum stated, urging all Nigerians to back the reforms.
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