Tax Bills: Senate Stands Firm Against Intimidation – Akpabio

The Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Tax Reform Bills, emphasising that no aspect of the legislative process has been suspended or withdrawn.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated during plenary on Thursday that the upper chamber remained focused on its mandate to represent Nigerians’ interests and will not be intimidated by external pressures.

In response to a Point of Order raised by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Akpabio dismissed media reports suggesting that deliberations on the Tax Reform Bills have been suspended or withdrawn by the Senate.

Rejecting any attempt to pressure the National Assembly, the Senate President also stated, “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 had earlier in his remarks similarly cautioned against misinformation from social or conventional media, urging the public to focus on the 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“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills.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, “We don’t take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how highly placed.”

Senator Akpabio emphasised that the Senate was not in a hurry and will conduct thorough deliberations on the bills.

He announced further legislative actions, 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.

The Senate President explained that public hearings and consultations with stakeholders, including governors, religious leaders, and business leaders, are vital to resolving any uncertainties.

“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 established a committee to review the controversial Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.

According to Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over plenary on Wednesday, the committee—headed by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South)—will meet with AGF Lateef Fagbemi to address grey areas in the bills and report back to the Senate before the public hearing.

Barau noted that the executive arm of the government had agreed with the Senate that all disagreements in the bills must be resolved.

Since President Bola Tinubu forwarded the four Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly in October, they have faced significant opposition, especially from the Northern region of the country.