Senate Forms Committee to Address Tax Reform Bill Controversies

• The Senate establishes a committee led by Senator Abba Moro to address contentious issues in the proposed tax reform bills
• The committee will consult key stakeholders and present findings before public hearings on the tax reform bills proceed

The Senate has established a committee led by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) to resolve contentious issues in the proposed tax reform bills. The committee is expected to present its findings to the Senate before the bills proceed to public hearings.

Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin (APC, Kano North) announced during Wednesday’s plenary session. Barau, who presided over the session, acknowledged the controversies surrounding the bills and outlined the committee’s mandate.

This includes consulting with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the executive branch, and other key stakeholders.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajuddeen Abbas read his letter during separate plenary sessions.

Tinubu stated that the proposed bills aim to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal institutions and align with his administration’s broader development goals.

However, the bills have faced opposition from various groups, including governors, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and some lawmakers.

Barau named additional committee members, including Senators Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), and Abdullahi Yahaha (Kebbi North), among others. The committee’s findings will play a crucial role in shaping the next steps for the proposed tax reforms.