The House of Representatives has disclosed its intention to consult tax experts on the potential impacts of the Tax Reform Bills currently under review by the National Assembly.
The Deputy spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, shared this development in an interview with The PUNCH in Abuja on Wednesday.
The recent tax reform bills, introduced by President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council, aim to streamline tax procedures, create a unified revenue service, and simplify financial obligations for both businesses and individuals.
These reforms stemmed from an extensive review of Nigeria’s tax laws conducted by a committee led by Taiwo Oyedele, which was established in August 2023.
However, 19 governors opposed the bills, arguing that it would negatively impact northern regions and state governments.
Despite the governors’ reservations, the Presidency has urged Parliament to proceed with reviewing the bills, while leaving room for legislative adjustments.
Agbese emphasized the House’s intention to engage the public through town hall meetings to gather input from citizens.
He said, “Where necessary, we will bring in experts to dissect them line by line and understand what exactly Nigerians think about it. They (the executive bills) will be subjected to a Town Hall engagement with the citizens for their input.
“We are known for being the People’s House, and that mantra under the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abass will be sustained at all times.”
Additionally, House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda noted that the minority caucus had already initiated a review of the bills prior to the governors’ meeting.
