Lawmakers representing the Southeast have urged proponents of the Tax Reform Bills to widen consultations on the pending legislation in the National Assembly.
Following a private meeting in Abuja on Monday, the Southeast Senate Caucus, led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, emphasized the need for inclusive stakeholder engagement before further legislative actions are taken.
“We are not against the tax reform bills,” Abaribe clarified. “However, we insist on wider consultations with our constituents across the 15 senatorial districts, state governments, and other critical stakeholders in our zone. This ensures the final framework reflects equity and addresses regional concerns.”
The caucus acknowledged the importance of the reforms but stressed that broader discussions would enhance inclusiveness and legislative effectiveness.
The Tax Reform Bills, submitted by President Bola Tinubu in October, have sparked debates nationwide. While the South-South senators have backed the bills, opposition remains strong in the North, where stakeholders and the National Economic Council (NEC) have called for their withdrawal to facilitate wider consultations.
Governors from the 36 states, under the leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima in the NEC, have joined Northern political groups in raising concerns over the reforms. Leading the opposition is Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum.
Abaribe reiterated the Southeast Senate Caucus’s commitment to advocating for equity. “We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure the envisaged reforms are inclusive, equitable, and beneficial to all parts of the country,” he stated.
Key components of the Tax Reform Bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill 2024, Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill 2024, and Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill 2024.
