FG’s Handling of Tax Bills Process Criticized, Calls for More Outspoken Senators Like Ndume – Orji Kalu
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has expressed concern over the federal government’s approach to the ongoing tax reform bills, accusing the government of failing to adequately engage with key stakeholders during the legislative process.
In October, President Bola Tinubu urged the National Assembly to review and pass four significant tax reform bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
However, the proposed legislation has met resistance, particularly from the Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF), which opposed the bills, and the National Economic Council (NEC), which has called for their withdrawal to allow for more extensive consultations.
In an interview with Arise Television on Monday, Kalu criticized the federal government for not involving key stakeholders such as the NEC, NSGF, and the Council of State before introducing the bills. While he acknowledged that the bills themselves are progressive and aim to restore fiscal federalism, he stressed the importance of broader consultation.
“The bills are very progressive, and they can help bring back fiscal federalism,” Kalu said. “However, I believe the government made a mistake by not briefing the National Economic Council, the Governors’ Forum, and the Council of State before presenting them. These consultations are crucial.”
The Need for Strong Voices in the Senate
Kalu also spoke highly of Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South, emphasizing the importance of having outspoken politicians who can challenge the status quo and raise important national issues. Ndume, a vocal critic of the tax bills, has even threatened to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the legislation.
“We need more senators like Ndume who will speak up and raise our conscience on important matters,” Kalu remarked. “Senator Ndume is not afraid to speak out, and I respect him for that. Those who tell him to remain silent are not being supportive of democracy. Democracy thrives on diverse voices and not just one opinion.”
Kalu pointed out that Ndume’s bold stance has earned respect, noting that the Senate president has not silenced him, which he views as a healthy sign for democratic discourse.
Revamping Nigeria’s Outdated Tax System
On the issue of Nigeria’s tax laws, Kalu reiterated that the country’s tax system is outdated and in desperate need of reform. He dismissed rumors that President Tinubu was planning to bring in Alpha Beta, a consulting firm linked to tax administration in Lagos State, to handle the nation’s tax reform efforts.
“The real issue is that Nigeria’s tax laws are obsolete,” Kalu stated. “We need comprehensive amendments to our legal frameworks, not just limited to tax laws, but across the board. It’s time for a major overhaul.”
Kalu’s comments highlight the need for a balanced approach to reform, one that engages all relevant parties and is rooted in democratic dialogue, while also addressing the structural issues hindering the country’s progress.
