The Nigerian Senate has formed a special committee to address unclear provisions in the controversial Tax Reform Bills and present its findings to the Senate ahead of a public hearing.
The committee, chaired by Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), the Senate Minority Leader, was announced during Wednesday’s plenary session by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin (APC, Kano North), who presided over the meeting.
Barau highlighted the contentious nature of the bills and stated that the committee will collaborate with the Attorney General of the Federation, the executive branch, and other relevant stakeholders to clarify the issues.
On October 3, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajuddeen Abbas read the president’s letter introducing the bills during separate sessions. Tinubu noted that the proposed reforms aim to enhance Nigeria’s fiscal framework and align with his administration’s broader development agenda.
Despite these objectives, the bills have faced strong opposition from various quarters, including state governors, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and some federal legislators.
Barau also listed Senators Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Orjir Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), and Abdullahi Yahaha (Kebbi North) among the committee members.