South-East senate caucus withheld endorsement of Tinubu’s tax reform bills, demands more consultations

December 09, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

The South-East Senate Caucus has refused to back Tinubu’s contentious tax bill, which is currently under consideration by the National Assembly.

Instead, the caucus is advocating for more extensive consultations with stakeholders before the passage of the bill.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South), who spoke on behalf of the caucus, emphasized that they do not oppose the proposed tax reforms.

However, they believe that broader engagement with stakeholders is necessary.

“As senators from the South-East, we are not against the Tax Reform Bills,” Abaribe stated.

“However, we insist on wider consultations with our constituents across the 15 senatorial districts, state governments, and other critical stakeholders in our zone.”

Abaribe further explained that the caucus has reviewed the bills and feels it is essential to share their insights with stakeholders in the South-East.

This, he said, would ensure that the final framework reflects equity and addresses regional concerns.

“We have reviewed the bills and feel it is essential to share our insights with stakeholders in the South-East to ensure the final framework reflects equity and addresses regional concerns,” Abaribe said. “Consultation is vital for inclusiveness and effective legislation.”

The South-East Senate Caucus’s decision not to endorse the tax bill comes amid controversies surrounding the proposed sharing formula of Value Added Tax (VAT). Northern governors have rejected the plan, arguing that it would disadvantage their region.

In contrast, the South-South Senate Caucus has expressed its support for the tax reform bills, recognizing the importance of tax reforms in improving revenue generation.