Just In: Tax Reform Bills: Only President Can Withdraw Bill, We Cannot Be Bullied By Anyone — Akpabio
Akpabio reaffirmed this during Thursday's plenary adding that the Upper Chamber remains steadfast in its commitment to representing the interests of Nigerians and would not succumb to external pressures.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has said that the upper legislative chamber cannot be "bullied" into withdrawing deliberations on the controversial Tax Reforms Bill.
He noted that only the executive arm of the government led by President Bola Tinubu could withdraw the bill, not the Senate.
Akpabio reaffirmed this during Thursday's plenary adding that the Upper Chamber remains steadfast in its commitment to representing the interests of Nigerians and would not succumb to external pressures.
Responding to a point of order raised by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Akpabio rejected media reports suggesting that discussions on the bills had been suspended or withdrawn.
He dismissed any efforts to intimidate the Senate, asserting, "The Senate cannot be bullied. Any reform we believe is in the best interest of Nigerians will proceed. These bills contain provisions aimed at benefiting the public."
Senator Bamidele also cautioned against misinformation circulating on social media and in the press, urging the public to focus on verified facts.
He emphasized, "We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills.
“Any attempt to intimidate the Senate is undemocratic. These bills are executive communications, and only the executive has the authority to withdraw them. We remain resolute in fulfilling our legislative duties."
Akpabio further emphasized the Senate's independence, stating, "We do not take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how high-ranking."
Highlighting the Senate's careful approach, the Senate President noted that there is no rush to finalize the bills, rather, thorough review processes are underway, including the formation of a special committee representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
According to him, the committee will engage with Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi to address contentious issues.
Akpabio explained that public hearings and consultations with stakeholders, including governors, religious leaders, and business figures, are crucial to clarifying any concerns.
"If six weeks are insufficient, we will extend the time. We are committed to transparency and addressing all concerns," he added.
On Wednesday, the Senate established a committee to review the controversial Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.
Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, who presided over plenary on Wednesday, stated that the committee, led by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), would meet with AGF Lateef Fagbemi to resolve any ambiguities in the bills and report back to the Senate before the public hearing.
Barau also noted that the executive branch and the Senate agreed on the importance of resolving the issues causing disagreements in the bills.
Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted four Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly in October, the bills have faced significant opposition, particularly from the Northern region.
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