Abuja – The Nigerian Senate witnessed a tumultuous session on Wednesday over the contentious Tax Reform Bill, leading to a disruption of proceedings. The disagreement arose after the bill, introduced by President Bola Tinubu, was unexpectedly brought up for debate without being listed on the Order Paper for the day.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau (APC, Kano North) presided over the session, during which Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) invoked Order 12(1) of the Senate Standing Rules. Bamidele proposed inviting financial experts, including the Director-General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Tanimu Yakubu, and Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman Zacch Adedeji, to provide insights on the bill.
Following the passage of two other bills for a second reading, Bamidele’s motion was seconded by Barau, who directed the Sergeant-at-Arms to admit the invited experts into the Chamber.
Senator Ndume Opposes Debate on Procedural Grounds
The introduction of the Tax Reform Bill drew sharp opposition from Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South), who accused the Senate leadership of violating established legislative procedures. Ndume cited the Senate Standing Orders, emphasizing that any bill not listed on the Order Paper requires a supplementary Order Paper to be debated.
“This is a very important matter,” Ndume argued. “We must follow known procedures. Nigerians are watching, and this issue cannot be rushed. Tax reform is a sensitive issue that deeply affects our people. We must fulfill our oath to represent the interests of Nigerians.”
Despite his objections, Deputy Senate President Barau defended the motion, dismissing Ndume’s concerns as “rhetoric.” This remark escalated tensions, prompting a heated exchange between the two lawmakers.
“Is it because you are sitting there that you dismiss a Senator’s contributions as rhetoric?” Ndume retorted. “You can rule me out of order, but I will speak for Nigerians.”
Barau ultimately ruled Ndume out of order, allowing the invited experts to address the Chamber on the proposed legislation.
Tax Reform Bill Sparks Division
The Tax Reform Bill, designed to overhaul Nigeria’s tax framework, has been presented by the Tinubu administration as critical for ensuring economic stability. However, it has faced resistance from various stakeholders, including state governors and the National Economic Council, who have raised concerns about its potential impact.
The session highlighted divisions within the Senate over the bill’s deliberation process and its broader implications. While proponents argue it is essential for boosting Nigeria’s revenue base, opponents stress the need for transparency and adherence to legislative rules.
The debate underscores the challenges ahead for President Tinubu’s reform agenda, as lawmakers grapple with balancing the bill’s objectives against public concerns and procedural integrity.
