The National Assembly is determined to pass the tax reform bills despite facing resistance from various groups, including civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and even some lawmakers. Senator Seriake Dickson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, made this clear during a media chat in Abuja on December 2.
Senator Dickson, a former governor of Bayelsa State, assured Nigerians that the bills would be approved, just like the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) was passed in the past. “The heavens won’t fall,” he confidently stated, highlighting the inevitability of the reforms.
The tax reform bills were submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu on October 3, 2024. The proposals aim to address significant fiscal challenges and improve revenue generation for the nation. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas read the president’s letter during separate sessions in both chambers.
However, the bills have not been welcomed by all. Some Nigerians, including state governors and traditional rulers, have voiced their concerns, arguing that the reforms might increase the financial burden on citizens.
Despite the opposition, the Senate has already progressed to the second reading of the bills, demonstrating a commitment to pushing the reforms forward. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has yet to take decisive steps on the matter.
Senator Dickson remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of the tax reforms for the country’s growth. He encouraged stakeholders to see the bigger picture and support the legislative process.
As debates continue, the fate of the tax reform bills remains in the hands of lawmakers. If passed, these reforms could reshape Nigeria’s tax system, impacting both the economy and the citizens.
Stay updated on this significant development in Nigeria’s legislative landscape.
Reacting, Senator Dickson said: “The PIA was passed. We wanted 10% which was what Yar’adua proposed. They (federal lawmakers) reduced it to 3%. Heaven did not fall. This tax reform bills will pass and heavens will not fall.
“The Senate has passed the bills for second reading. Public hearing will take place and people should get ready to present their positions. The tax bill is a proposed law like every other and it has to go through the normal legislative process.
“Right now, taxes from Bayelsa State are paid to Lagos State and I don’t want that to continue. When there is consumption of any goods or services from any state it should be calculated and paid to that state.
“Now there is an opportunity to review the tax laws, to correct the anomalies and that is why I’m in support. I know there are states that are feeling that when they apply the new sharing formula, they will earn less. It’s for them to raise those issues and bring the statistics. I don’t go by sentiments. I go by what is right and in the national interest.”
