NIGERIA: Senate Clarifies Tax Reform Bills Still Under Review

By Onoja Baba, Abuja Nigeria 

The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has dismissed claims that the Senate has suspended or withdrawn its deliberations on the Tax Reform Bills, calling such reports a misunderstanding of the legislative process.

Addressing the Senate during Thursday’s plenary, Bamidele invoked Senate Point of Order 42 to refute media reports alleging a halt in the legislative process.

“Nowhere in our votes and proceedings was it stated that we suspended deliberations on the tax reform bills because we did not,” Bamidele clarified. He further explained that the bills, which were transmitted by the Executive Arm of Government through the Office of the President, could only be withdrawn by the executive itself, not by senators.

“These are not private member bills; they are executive bills. No senator can withdraw them, nor is there any reason for their withdrawal,” he said.

The Senate Leader also addressed public concerns, emphasizing that it is normal for differing opinions to emerge during the legislative process.

The Senate has referred the matter to the Committee on Finance, which has six weeks to examine the issues, engage stakeholders, and present a report.

“Six weeks is long enough in a country that seeks progress to reach a consensus. Any concerns raised can be addressed in the overriding public interest,” Bamidele stated.

He urged patience and understanding from the public, noting that the legislative process requires careful deliberation. He also warned against attempts to pressure or intimidate the parliament, calling such actions undemocratic.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, echoed Bamidele’s sentiments, reiterating that the legislative process must follow constitutional guidelines.

“The work of lawmaking is not done through social media or shortcuts but through committees, consultations, and our conscience for the good of Nigeria,” Akpabio said.

He explained that after the Tax Reform Bills passed their second reading, they entered the consultation stage under the Senate Committee on Finance. A separate committee, chaired by the Minority Leader, was also set up as an internal mechanism to facilitate discussions ahead of public hearings.

“The bills remain alive and under active consideration,” Akpabio affirmed, highlighting the Senate’s commitment to achieving reforms that serve the nation’s interests.