Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reiterated the Senate’s dedication to advancing legislative work on Nigeria’s controversial tax reform bills, describing them as essential to the nation’s development.
During Thursday’s plenary session, Akpabio highlighted the role of a special committee led by Senator Abba Moro, which was formed to engage with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) on contentious issues within the bills.
He emphasized that this initiative is part of the Senate’s strategy for addressing legislative concerns.
“We are here to serve the interests of Nigerians,” Akpabio stated. “Once a bill advances past its second reading, it becomes active.
“The Finance Committee then takes charge, engaging in consultations and organizing public hearings.”
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) also addressed misconceptions surrounding the tax reform bills.
He refuted media claims that the Senate had indefinitely halted discussions, following an announcement by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin during Wednesday’s plenary.
On Wednesday, Barau, who presided over the session, reportedly indicated that the Senate Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), would temporarily pause work on the bills.
He also announced the creation of the special committee, led by Moro, to liaise with the AGF on areas of contention.
However, Bamidele, invoking Senate Rule 42 during Thursday’s session, dismissed these reports, asserting: “Where is it stated that deliberations on the tax reform bills have been suspended? This Senate has not and will not halt discussions on these critical bills.”
He further clarified that the bills, being executive proposals, can only be withdrawn by the President.
With no plans for withdrawal, the Finance Committee remains committed to its six-week timeline, including hosting a public hearing. “The bills are very much active and under consideration,” Bamidele affirmed.
Attempts to confirm whether the committee met with the AGF were inconclusive. Calls to Senator Moro, other committee members, and the AGF’s office went unanswered at the time of this report.