Senator Ali Ndume Questions Rush to Pass Controversial Tax Reform Bills
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South in the Senate, has expressed concerns over the urgency with which the Presidency and some lawmakers are pushing to pass the contentious tax reform bills. These bills, which passed their second reading in the Senate on Thursday, have sparked widespread debate since their submission by President Bola Tinubu.
The National Economic Council (NEC) recently advised President Tinubu to withdraw the bills for further consultation, but the President has maintained that they should follow due legislative processes.
Appearing on Politics Today, a program on Channels Television, Ndume, one of the most vocal critics of the bills, urged the Presidency to heed the NEC’s recommendations. He called for a more inclusive approach, emphasizing the need for broader consultations to address the concerns of stakeholders.
“It’s not that I’m entirely against the bills. I’m not saying we should throw the baby out with the bathwater,” Ndume stated. “But considering that governors, the National Economic Council, and other key figures have raised issues, the best course of action is to withdraw the bills temporarily, consult widely, and then reintroduce them. The haste to pass them raises serious suspicions.”
Concerns Over Lack of Consensus
Ndume’s reservations reflect a broader sense of unease among lawmakers and stakeholders who feel the process lacks sufficient engagement. The NEC, comprising state governors and other economic leaders, has voiced concerns that the proposed reforms may not adequately consider the financial and economic implications for Nigerians.
Despite these warnings, the Presidency seems determined to press forward with the bills, a decision Ndume and others have described as worrisome. “The governors, who are also leaders in their own right, have advised against the rush. Why not take their input seriously? What’s the urgency about?” Ndume questioned.
Call for Broader Consultation
Ndume emphasized that withdrawing the bills would not mean abandoning the reforms entirely but would allow room for further dialogue and improvement. He argued that consultation with governors, economic experts, and the general public is crucial to ensuring that the reforms are well-received and effective.
“Taking time to consult and refine the proposals will only strengthen the credibility and effectiveness of the tax reforms. Rushing to pass them without addressing critical concerns could backfire,” he added.
Next Steps for the Tax Reform Bills
The tax reform bills aim to address critical gaps in Nigeria’s revenue generation system but have been criticized for their perceived lack of inclusivity and clarity. The Senate’s decision to advance the bills despite objections signals a contentious road ahead as stakeholders demand greater transparency and accountability.
As the debate continues, all eyes remain on the Presidency and lawmakers to determine whether they will prioritize consensus-building or push ahead with the controversial reforms.
