The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has explained the rationale behind the senate hasty decision to allow the controversial tax reform bills to proceed to the second reading.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Jibrin stated that the decision was made to create an opportunity for experts and the general public to provide their input on the proposed legislation.
President Bola Tinubu had recently transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration, a move that sparked widespread controversy. Northern governors and other stakeholders voiced strong opposition to the proposed reforms, citing potential negative impacts on citizens and businesses.
Despite the uproar, the Senate on Thursday passed the four tax bills for second reading through voice votes, a procedural step that paves the way for further scrutiny and debate.
Speaking on Friday, Senator Jibrin emphasized that the Senate’s approval for the bills to progress was not an endorsement of their content but rather a commitment to inclusive deliberation. “We passed the tax reform bills to allow contributions from experts and Nigerians,” he explained, urging citizens to actively engage in the process to ensure the bills reflect the interests of all.
The tax reforms, which include measures aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s tax administration system, remain a contentious issue as discussions continue in the National Assembly. The Senate has assured the public that the input of stakeholders will be considered before any final decisions are made.
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