The Southern Caucus of Nigeria's House of Representatives has expressed its support for President Bola Tinubu's proposed tax reform bills.
The announcement was made during a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday, led by Hon. Nicholas Mutu (PDP, Delta).
The four bills in question Nigeria Tax, Nigeria Tax Administration, Nigeria Revenue Service, and Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bills, were recently transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration and passage. These reforms are designed to overhaul the country's tax system and enhance revenue generation.
Hon. Nicholas Mutu articulated the caucus's enthusiasm for the reforms, stating, "The Southern caucus of the House of Representatives, we have met and welcome the tax reform bills with so much excitement. And at the right time, we’ll capture the people’s element that is missing in the bills."
Despite their endorsement, the Southern lawmakers emphasized their openness to dialogue, ensuring that the public's voice is incorporated into the final legislation. "We are open to dialogue.
We have not gone beyond that. We are not saying that we are supporting the bills. I didn’t say so. We are open to dialogue," Hon. Mutu clarified.
Adding to the discussion, Hon. Fredrick Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa) underscored the legislative process involved, noting, "Once they are received, they go through the House procedures, processes, and then the public is invited. Here, Mr. President has signed an executive bill."
Hon. Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos) assured that the House would meticulously scrutinize the bills before any passage, highlighting the importance of negotiation and compromise in the legislative process. "There’s no bill that has a national outlook that there won’t be interest colliding one way or the other. But our job is to sit down with our brothers, find the middle course," he remarked.
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