To address widespread concerns over the proposed tax reform bills, the Senate has set up a committee chaired by Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), the Minority Leader. The committee has been tasked with resolving contentious issues in the bills and is expected to report back to the Senate before public hearings commence.
Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin (APC, Kano North), who announced the formation of the committee during Wednesday’s plenary, emphasized the need for thorough consultation. The committee will engage with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the executive branch, and other key stakeholders to refine the bills.
The tax reform bills were transmitted to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to the president, the bills aim to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal institutions and align with his administration’s broader development goals.
Despite these assurances, the bills have sparked opposition from various groups, including governors, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and some lawmakers, who argue that the reforms could have adverse effects.
Other members of the committee include Senators Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), and Abdullahi Yahaya (Kebbi North), among others. The committee’s findings will play a crucial role in shaping the Senate’s approach to the contentious legislation.
