Akpabio Speaks On Alleged Withdrawal Of Tax Bills

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The Senate has reiterated its commitment to progressing the Tax Reform Bills, emphasizing that no part of the legislative process has been halted or withdrawn.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio made this statement during Thursday’s plenary, reaffirming that the upper chamber is dedicated to fulfilling its responsibility of representing the interests of Nigerians and will not be swayed by external pressures.

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This declaration followed a point of order raised by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

Akpabio also rejected media reports that suggested deliberations on the bills had been suspended or withdrawn.

Read Also: Senate Sets Up Committee To Review Tax Reform Bills With AGF

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.”

In his remarks, the Senate leader also warned against misinformation spread through social media and media reports, urging the public to concentrate 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“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills.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 that, “We don’t take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how highly placed.”

Senator Akpabio emphasized that the Senate is not rushing and is committed to conducting a thorough review of the bills currently before the house.

As part of this process, the Senate has taken additional legislative steps, including establishing a special committee representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to engage with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, in order to address any contentious issues.

The Senate President further noted that public hearings and consultations with key stakeholders, including governors, religious leaders, and business leaders, are essential to clarify and resolve any uncertainties.

“If six weeks are insufficient, we will extend the time. We are committed to transparency and addressing all concerns,” he said.

Read Also: 10 Ways Tax Bills Will Make States Richer – Presidency

On Wednesday, the Senate established a committee to review the contentious Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.

Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the plenary session, announced that the committee, led by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), would meet with the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to address the outstanding issues in the bills before presenting them to the Senate for a public hearing.

Barau emphasized that both the Senate and the executive branch agreed on the necessity of resolving the contentious aspects of the bills.

Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted the four Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly in October, they have faced significant opposition, particularly from the northern region of the country.