South-East Senators Demand Broad Consultations Before Approving Tinubu’s Tax Reforms

In a significant development, the South-East Caucus of the Nigerian Senate has withheld support for President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, emphasizing the need for extensive consultation with stakeholders before the legislation can proceed.

The decision emerged following a private meeting of senators representing the five South-East states, held under the leadership of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South). Speaking on behalf of the caucus, Abaribe clarified that while the group is not inherently opposed to the tax reforms, they strongly advocate for inclusive engagement to address regional concerns and ensure equitable implementation.

A Call for Inclusion and Equity

Abaribe highlighted the caucus’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of constituents, state governments, and critical stakeholders across the South-East are considered. “Our position is not an outright rejection of the Tax Reform Bills. However, we insist on the importance of consultation with our people across the 15 senatorial districts, as well as collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders,” he stated.

The senator further stressed that the proposed tax reforms must align with the broader interests of the region. “We have analyzed the bills and recognize the need for adjustments that reflect equity and inclusiveness. By engaging stakeholders, we can create a framework that addresses both national and regional priorities,” he added.

Regional Concerns Over Tax Reform Provisions

The proposed tax reform bills, currently under review by the National Assembly, have sparked widespread debate. Central to the controversy is the proposed sharing formula for Value Added Tax (VAT), which has drawn criticism from various quarters. Northern governors, for instance, have opposed aspects of the plan, arguing that it could disadvantage their region.

Senators from the South-East, while not directly opposing the bill, have joined the call for a thorough review of its provisions. Their focus remains on ensuring that the final legislation promotes fairness and mitigates potential disparities between Nigeria’s regions.

Next Steps for the South-East Caucus

As the debate over the tax bills continues, the South-East Caucus has committed to conducting consultations within their respective constituencies. This approach aims to gather input from local communities, state governments, and other relevant parties to shape the final legislation.

“Our commitment is to ensure that the legislative process is inclusive and transparent,” Abaribe reiterated. “Effective governance requires that we listen to the people we represent and consider their concerns before making decisions that affect their lives.”