The Senate, on Thursday, passed for second reading four contentious tax reform bills transmitted by Tinubu to the National Assembly.
The decision followed a lead debate presented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), during plenary.
In his presentation, Bamidele outlined the critical components of the bills, urging lawmakers to consider the reforms as pivotal for Nigeria’s economic stability and growth.
“These reforms are essential for addressing fiscal challenges and strengthening our nation’s revenue base,” Bamidele remarked.
During the session, senators engaged in a heated debate over the bills. While some expressed support, others raised concerns about the timing and implications of the proposed reforms.
This development comes a day after top government officials appeared before the Senate to make detailed presentations defending the bills’ provisions.
However, not all stakeholders are on board. Northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum have strongly opposed the bills, describing them as detrimental to national unity and economic interests. In a joint statement, they argued, “These bills do not reflect the collective interest of Nigerians and risk deepening existing disparities.”
Further updates on the Senate’s proceedings and reactions from stakeholders will follow.
