In a significant development, senators from Nigeria’s South-South region have declared their unwavering support for the controversial tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu.
The bills, which are currently under consideration by the National Assembly, have stirred debate across the country, with some regions opposing them due to concerns over their potential economic impact.
However, in a caucus meeting held on December 4, 2024, the South-South senators issued a strong communiqué in support of the bills, emphasizing their importance for national revenue generation and economic growth.
The lawmakers also reaffirmed their backing of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a native of Akwa Ibom State, one of the South-South states. Akpabio’s leadership has been critical in guiding the Senate’s work, and the South-South senators made it clear that they were fully behind him.
“We, the Senators from the South-South Geopolitical Zone, convened to deliberate on pressing national issues and the Senate’s role in advancing the collective interests of Nigeria,” the communiqué read. “After thorough discussions, we reached the following resolutions.”
The statement further stressed that the support for the tax reform bills was driven by a desire to increase national revenue and stimulate economic growth.
“We understand the critical role of tax reforms in enhancing national revenue and ensuring economic stability,” the communiqué continued. “We have resolved to support the Tax Reform Bills, based on a comprehensive review and in-depth evaluation of their contents.”
Despite facing opposition from lawmakers and political leaders in the Northern region and other parts of the country, the South-South senators remained firm in their endorsement.
Their support is rooted in the belief that the bills, if passed, would play a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s economy. According to Senator Seriake Dickson, Chairman of the South-South caucus, the tax reforms are an essential part of the nation’s efforts to boost its financial stability.
“The tax reforms are necessary for the future of Nigeria. We believe this will increase revenue, which is crucial for the country’s economic development,” said Dickson.
The South-South senators also made it clear that their support for the reforms was not without careful consideration. They stressed that their backing would be contingent on a comprehensive review of the bills to ensure they are in line with the broader interests of all Nigerians, particularly those in the South-South region.
“We call for restraint from those introducing sentiments, whether regional, ethnic, or tribal, into this national dialogue,” the statement noted. “Our commitment is to foster a legislative agenda that ensures the peace, prosperity, and progress of our nation.”
While there has been a significant amount of resistance to the tax reforms, especially from groups in the Northern region, the South-South senators have emphasized the need for unity in the face of national challenges. They called for continued robust discussions and consultations, which they believe will help shape a fair and inclusive policy.
“The tax reforms are not just for one region, they are for the entire country,” Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Secretary of the South-South caucus, said. “We must focus on what is best for Nigeria as a whole.”
The endorsement from the South-South senators marks a turning point in the ongoing debate over the tax reform bills. It also underscores the growing influence of the South-South region in the National Assembly, particularly with the strong leadership of Senate President Akpabio.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, one of the signatories to the communiqué, echoed the need for unity among Nigerian lawmakers. “We are all in this together, and our collective goal should be to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Despite the opposition, the South-South senators remain steadfast in their resolve to ensure the timely passage of the bills. They are calling for other members of the National Assembly to put aside regional and ethnic divides and work together for the country’s betterment.
“Our support will be based on a detailed review to ensure that the bills align with the well-being of all Nigerians, including the people of the South-South,” the communiqué concluded.
As the debate over the tax reforms continues to unfold, the South-South senators are expected to remain vocal in their support for the bills. They are determined to play a leading role in the legislative process, ensuring that Nigeria’s economic future is secured through comprehensive and effective tax reforms.
With the backing of the South-South senators, the tax reform bills are poised to continue making their way through the legislative process, as the National Assembly debates their merits and potential impact on the country’s economy.
“We are committed to working with all our colleagues in the Senate to make sure that these reforms benefit all Nigerians, regardless of where they come from,” said Senator Neda Imasuen.
