The South-East Caucus in the Nigerian Senate has declined to endorse President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reforms, emphasizing the need for broader consultations with stakeholders before the bills can be fully considered.
Following a closed-door meeting held in the office of their leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South), the caucus highlighted the importance of engaging constituents and critical stakeholders across the region.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Abaribe clarified that the caucus is not opposed to the tax reform bills but believes that inclusive dialogue is essential to ensure the legislation is equitable and addresses regional concerns.
“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.”
The caucus stressed that these consultations are necessary to align the bills with the interests of the South-East and promote effective legislation.
The senators also expressed concerns about the contentious provisions within the proposed tax reforms, particularly the sharing formula for Value Added Tax (VAT), which has sparked debates. While some Northern governors have voiced opposition to certain aspects, citing regional disadvantages, the South-East senators emphasized that careful deliberation is critical to fostering national unity and fairness.
The caucus reaffirmed its commitment to engaging stakeholders in the South-East before making a final decision on the proposed bills.
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