JUST IN: South-East Senate caucus urges wider consultations on tax bills
The South-East Caucus in the Senate has joined the growing calls for broader consultations on the Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.
The caucus announced its position on Monday following a closed-door meeting of senators from the five South-East states, held in the office of their leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South).
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Abaribe clarified that while the caucus does not oppose the proposed tax reforms, it believes more extensive engagement with stakeholders is necessary before the bills are fully considered by both chambers.
He said, “As senators from the South-East, we are not against the Tax Reform Bills. However, we insist on wider consultations with our constituents across the 15 senatorial districts, state governments, and other critical stakeholders in our zone.
“We have reviewed the bills and feel it is essential to share our insights with stakeholders in the South-East to ensure the final framework reflects equity and addresses regional concerns. Consultation is vital for inclusiveness and effective legislation.”
The Tax Reform Bills under discussion include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill 2024, the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill 2024, and the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill 2024.
These bills have sparked significant debate since their submission by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024.
While the Presidency and the South-South Senate Caucus have advocated for the swift passage of the bills, other groups such as the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Northern Senators, and the Arewa Consultative Forum have emphasised the need for wider consultations.
Abaribe assured that the South-East Caucus would continue to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure the tax reforms are inclusive, equitable, and beneficial to all regions of the country.
“Specifically, we need to consult with our constituents across the 15 senatorial districts in the zone, with our state governments, and with other critical stakeholders,” he added.
