Deputy spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Mr. Philip Agbese, has revealed that some state governors are threatening to deny federal lawmakers return tickets for the 2027 elections if they support President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Agbese disclosed that lawmakers would engage with the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, and other tax experts on the bills on Monday, ahead of plenary resumption on Tuesday.
Tinubu transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly on September 3, 2024, based on recommendations by the Oyedele-led committee.
The proposed bills include:
1. Nigeria Tax Bill 2024: Establishing a comprehensive fiscal framework for taxation.
2. Tax Administration Bill: Providing clear legal frameworks to reduce disputes over taxes.
3. Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill: Replacing the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act with a new entity.
4. Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill: Creating a tax tribunal and ombudsman.
While the 36 governors have demanded the withdrawal of these bills to allow for further consultation and public input, President Tinubu has stood firm, suggesting that amendments can be made during debates in the National Assembly.
Agbese accused some governors of coercive tactics to undermine the bills.
“Some of these governors are threatening members from their states. They have even gone far to threaten that they would deny members return tickets in 2027 if they support the bills,” he said.
However, Agbese assured that lawmakers remain undeterred, emphasizing their commitment to Nigeria’s economic progress.
“As far as we are concerned in the House of Representatives, nobody can stop us from supporting President Bola Tinubu’s bid to reboot the economy. We are united across party lines to make sure the country works,” he declared.
Quoting Isaiah 54:15, he added, “Behold, they shall surely gather, but not by me. Whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.”
Agbese underscored the independence of the 10th Assembly, stating, “The difference between the new crop of politicians in the House of Representatives is that we are intellectually sound, progressive-minded, and pro-Nigeria. We were not elected by the governors but our constituents.”
Agbese highlighted efforts to ensure lawmakers are well-informed about the bills.
“We have made copies of the bills available to every lawmaker to study, dissect, and make inputs when we bring them up for debate,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the bills would pass with minor adjustments, adding, “I see the 10th House Congressmen passing the bills with minor adjustments to polish them with a touch of patriotism and intellectualism.”
Other lawmakers echoed support for a robust legislative process to review the bills:
– Afam Ogene (Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Anambra State) emphasized the importance of Monday’s consultation with tax experts, stating, “Fears have been expressed regarding the motives of the tax bills, but the technical session will allow all misgivings to be addressed.”
– Odianosen Okojie (Esan North East/Esan South East, Edo State) urged the House to prioritize passing the bills, saying, “The President means well for the country. The governors should embrace the tax reform bills because it’s a win-win situation for all.”
– Oluwole Oke (Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, Osun State) pledged to work collaboratively, stating, “I will work with the committee at the public hearing and in the committee of the whole.”
Despite attempts to mediate, tensions remain high as governors continue to push back against the reforms. Efforts to get a comment from Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages.
The tax reform bills are set to dominate legislative debates when lawmakers resume plenary on Tuesday, November 19, marking a crucial test for the 10th National Assembly’s independence and commitment to economic reforms.
