- Agbese supports Tinubu’s tax reform bills, arguing they will boost the economy and streamline taxation by reducing multiple tax burdens
- He urges state governors to reconsider their opposition, emphasizing the bills’ potential to address over-taxation concerns and tax evasion issues
Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, voiced his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tax reform bills on Tuesday. He asserted that these reforms would invigorate the economy and streamline the tax system by reducing the burden of multiple taxes.
Agbese expressed his commitment to rallying parliamentary support for the bills currently under review by the National Assembly.
Despite controversies surrounding the bills—particularly among stakeholders in the North and state governors who have requested more consultation—President Tinubu has pushed for their passage.
On September 3, 2024, the president sent four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, following recommendations by the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, led by Taiwo Oyedele.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Agbese stated his belief in the economic benefits of the reforms if enacted. “I am one of the strongest advocates of President Tinubu’s tax bills because I believe in changes that will benefit the country,” he said, adding that he has been encouraging his colleagues to consider the significance of these bills.
Agbese emphasized that the reforms would support his home state of Benue and benefit all tax-compliant citizens. “Those who are apprehensive fear accountability and transparency,” he noted, explaining that the bills would foster greater taxpayer awareness and encourage demands for government accountability.
He urged the 36 state governors to reconsider their stance, highlighting widespread concerns of over-taxation in the business sector and noting that many businesses still do not remit taxes to the government.
Agbese pointed out that the reforms aim to address excessive taxation and tax evasion among businesses, which have led to substantial revenue losses for the government.
“Countries providing social services to their citizens depend on timely tax payments,” he added. “Many Nigerians have raised concerns over multiple taxations, which these reforms intend to resolve. Some companies exploit gaps in our tax laws to evade taxes, causing significant revenue loss.”
Agbese concluded by appealing to state governors to support the tax reform bills, stressing that the entire nation would benefit if they were enacted.
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