Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, has urged President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the contentious tax reform bill, citing concerns about its timing and content.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Ndume highlighted the negative perception of reforms among Nigerians, irrespective of their potential benefits.
“As it stands, when you talk about reforms to Nigerians, whether good or bad, they misconceive you,” Ndume remarked.
The senator emphasized the need for reforms to drive national progress but criticized the current bill, noting its timing and contentious provisions.
“Reform is necessary if we have to move forward. I am not against reforms, and I am not against the tax reform bill. My problem is, first of all, the timing. Secondly, the issue of derivation contaminates and contradicts parts of the bill,” he said.
The tax reform bill has sparked widespread debate, particularly among northern Nigerians, many of whom argue that it does not serve the nation’s best interests.
Ndume also stressed the importance of amending the constitution to address the bill’s contentious aspects.
“The constitution has to be amended for some of these provisions to be effective. I’m glad we are working on constitutional review. Even if it means reviewing the constitution further, let’s do that,” he added.
Despite the controversy, the bill passed its second reading in the Senate on Thursday after a heated debate led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central).
The bill’s progress has continued to draw mixed reactions as lawmakers and citizens alike deliberate its implications for the nation’s economic and social structure.
