Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made it clear that the upper legislative chamber will not back down on deliberations over the controversial tax reform bills.
During Thursday’s plenary session, Akpabio emphasized that the Senate remains committed to representing the interests of Nigerians.
He dismissed reports claiming that discussions on the tax bills had been suspended or withdrawn.
“The Senate cannot be bullied,” Akpabio declared firmly.
He added that any reforms that serve the public interest will proceed despite external pressures.
“These bills contain provisions that are in the best interest of Nigerians,” he stated.
Akpabio’s comments came after a point of order raised by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
Bamidele cautioned against the spread of misinformation by the media and social media platforms.
“The public should focus on facts, not rumours,” Bamidele said.
He clarified that only the executive arm can withdraw the tax bills, not the Senate.
“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills,” Bamidele reiterated.
He also warned that any attempt to intimidate the Senate is undemocratic.
“We don’t take orders from anyone, no matter how highly placed,” he stressed.
Akpabio assured Nigerians that the Senate would not rush its decisions.
The Senate, he explained, will conduct thorough reviews of the bills.
He announced the formation of a special committee to address concerns surrounding the bills.
This committee, representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, will engage with Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi.
Akpabio highlighted the importance of consultations with stakeholders.
“We will meet with governors, religious leaders, and business leaders to resolve uncertainties,” he said.
Public hearings will also be held to ensure transparency and inclusivity.
“If six weeks are insufficient, we will extend the time,” Akpabio added.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau also weighed in on the issue.
On Wednesday, Barau presided over the session that set up the review committee.
The committee is headed by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro of Benue South.
Barau stated that the executive arm agreed on the need to address contentious issues in the bills.
Moro’s committee will engage with the AGF and report back to the Senate before public hearings commence.
The tax reform bills have faced stiff resistance, particularly from Northern Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had forwarded four tax reform bills to the National Assembly in October.
These bills have sparked widespread debate and opposition across the country.
Critics argue that the proposed reforms could place additional burdens on citizens.
Supporters of the bills believe they are necessary to boost government revenue and improve the economy.
Akpabio’s insistence on transparency aims to reassure Nigerians that their concerns will be addressed.