The South-East Senate Caucus has called for more extensive consultations on the Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.
This position was announced on Monday following a closed-door meeting of senators from the five South-East states. The meeting took place in the office of their leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South).
After the meeting, Abaribe explained the caucus’s stance, emphasizing that while they are not opposed to the tax reforms, they believe broader engagement is necessary before the bills are passed.
“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.”
Abaribe further stressed that the consultations are vital to ensuring inclusivity, equity, and effective legislation that reflects regional concerns.
The Tax Reform Bills currently under review include:
- Nigeria Tax Bill 2024
- Nigeria Tax Administration Bill 2024
- Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill 2024
- Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill 2024
These bills were first introduced by President Bola Tinubu on October 3, 2024, and have generated mixed reactions. While the South-South Senate Caucus and the Presidency support swift passage, groups like the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Northern Senators have called for deeper consultations.
Abaribe assured that the South-East Caucus will actively engage with stakeholders to ensure that the final legislative framework is equitable and considers regional concerns.
“We need to consult with our constituents across the 15 senatorial districts, with our state governments, and other critical stakeholders.”
This statement underscores the commitment of the caucus to foster a transparent and participatory legislative process.
