By Ekpeno ASUQUO, Abuja
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has debunked media reports suggesting that the Senate has withdrawn or suspended deliberations on the Tax Reform Bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking during Thursday’s plenary, Akpabio emphasised that the bills, which are part of the executive’s reform agenda, remain under consideration and are not subject to withdrawal unless initiated by the presidency.
“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills.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,” he declared.
Senate President Akpabio further assured that the Senate would not be swayed by external pressures.
“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. We don’t take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how highly placed,” he added.
The Senate had earlier constituted a special committee chaired by Senator Abba Moro to address contentious issues in the four tax bills.
The committee will liaise with the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to resolve these concerns.
Tinubu transmitted the bills to the National Assembly on October 13, following recommendations by the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, headed by Taiwo Oyedele.
The bills have sparked debates among stakeholders, including northern governors, who have voiced concerns about their implications.
Despite passing second reading in the Senate, discussions on the bills have been polarizing.
However, Akpabio assured Nigerians that all areas of disagreement would be addressed during the committee’s review.
“The bills are designed to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal framework and ensure fairness in taxation,” Akpabio stated, urging stakeholders to engage constructively in the legislative process.
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Senate Has Not Withdrawn, Suspended Tax Reform Bills – Akpabio |SituationReport|
