- Safiu Kehinde
The Nigerian Senate has suspended further proceedings of the controversial tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.
Sequel to the mixed reaction that met the four bills with strong criticism from Northern leaders, the Red Chamber, on Wednesday, put the bills, which had been under review by the Senate Committee on Finance, on hold to allow further consultations and resolution of the concerns raised.
According to reports, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over Wednesday’s plenary session, announced the decision, emphasising the need for unity and dialogue in addressing the contentious issues.
Barau disclosed that the Senate has mandated its Finance Committee to halt all public hearings on the bills until the disagreements are resolved.
He added that a ten-member Senate committee will meet with the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to address the areas of contention.
Barau stressed that the Senate and the executive arm of government are committed to finding common ground to ensure the bills align with the nation’s interests.
The Deputy Speaker, however, reassured Nigerians of the Senate’s commitment to fostering transparency and inclusivity in the legislative process, adding that the collaboration with the Attorney General is crucial for resolving the disputes.