Governors Threaten Reps Over Support for Tinubu’s VAT Bill – Spokesman
The Deputy Spokesman for the House of Representatives, Mr. Philip Agbese, has revealed that some state governors are threatening to deny federal lawmakers their return tickets for the 2027 general elections if they do not withdraw support for President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
Agbese disclosed that the lawmakers are set to engage the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, and other tax experts to discuss the bills. The meeting is scheduled for today, Monday, November 18, 2024, ahead of the National Assembly’s resumption.
The Tax Reform Bills
On September 3, 2024, President Tinubu transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration, following recommendations from the Oyedele-led tax reforms committee. The bills include:
- The Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, which aims to establish a fiscal framework for taxation.
- The Tax Administration Bill, designed to create a clear legal framework for taxes and reduce disputes.
- The Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, which seeks to repeal the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act and create the Nigeria Revenue Service.
- The Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, which proposes the establishment of a tax tribunal and tax ombudsman.
Despite this, the 36 state governors have called for the withdrawal of these bills, citing the need for further consultation and public input. However, President Tinubu has rejected their concerns, stating that amendments can be made during the bills’ debates in the National Assembly.
Governors’ Threats to Lawmakers
According to Agbese, several governors are holding meetings with lawmakers from their states, threatening to deny them re-election tickets in 2027 if they support the bills. Despite these threats, Agbese stated that members of the House of Representatives remain firm in their support for the tax reforms, emphasizing the importance of revamping the nation’s economy.
“We are united across party lines to ensure that these reforms succeed,” Agbese declared. He added that the current crop of lawmakers is intellectually sound, progressive-minded, and committed to the nation’s development. “We were not elected by the governors, but by our constituents, and we will support bills that benefit them,” he said.
Tax Experts’ Engagement
Ahead of Tuesday’s resumption of plenary, the House will engage with tax experts, including Oyedele, to better understand the merits and potential drawbacks of the tax bills. The lawmakers will study the bills independently and prepare to make informed contributions during the upcoming debate.
“We have made copies of the bills available to all lawmakers to study,” Agbese said, adding that he anticipates the bills will pass with some minor amendments to refine them.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Several lawmakers expressed their views on the tax reform bills:
- Mr. Afam Ogene (representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Anambra State) emphasized the importance of dialogue and urged Nigerians to be patient while the legislature deliberates on the bills.
- Mr. Odianosen Okojie (representing Esan North East/Esan South East, Edo State) called for swift passage of the bills, supporting President Tinubu’s efforts for policy reform.
- Mr. Oluwole Oke (representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, Osun State) pledged to work collaboratively with colleagues to arrive at a consensus on the bills.
Conclusion
As the National Assembly resumes, the tax reform bills are expected to dominate discussions, with lawmakers aiming to reach a consensus on the legislation. While the governors have voiced opposition, the legislative process will continue, with many lawmakers expressing strong support for the reforms, viewing them as crucial for the country’s economic recovery.
