Politicians Criticizing Tinubu’s Tax Reforms Lacking Understanding, Says Agbese

Politicians Criticizing Tinubu’s Tax Reforms Lacking Understanding, Says AgbeseThe Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has argued that political opposition to the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu will diminish if lawmakers and other stakeholders take the time to study the details of the documents. According to Agbese, many of the governors, legislators, and others who oppose the reforms lack a proper understanding of what the bill entails.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In an interview with Arise News on Tuesday, Agbese emphasized that the tax reform bill is in Nigeria’s best interest and would be more widely accepted if its contents were carefully reviewed. He noted that, if critics could familiarize themselves with the bill, they would appreciate its benefits, as many others have already done.

“The opposition we’re seeing is mainly from political leaders who have not taken the time to study this document, as the 10th House of Representatives has,” Agbese said. “If they did, they would likely come to appreciate the bill, as many of us have. It’s a document that is good for the country.”

The tax reform bills, which are currently before the National Assembly, have sparked controversy and debate. However, Agbese pointed out that during an interactive session with lawmakers on Monday, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman Zach Adedeji addressed concerns raised by parliamentarians. Agbese said the session helped clarify misunderstandings, particularly regarding the potential regional impact of the reforms.

“Members of various regions, including those from the northern caucus, are engaging in smaller consultations to ensure the bills are fair and equitable,” Agbese explained. “We are committed to making sure the reforms serve national interests while considering regional concerns.”

He added that discussions with lawmakers had alleviated fears that certain regions would lose out under the proposed tax system. “There was concern over the redistribution of tax revenues, particularly regarding headquarters taxes, but these fears have been addressed,” Agbese said. “The bill is not about benefiting any one region but ensuring that every Nigerian receives value from their contributions to the national treasury.”

Agbese also highlighted the importance of the tax reform bill in addressing long-standing issues of taxation imbalance. He recalled a statement from Adedeji, who expressed frustration that just a few states account for a disproportionate share of the country’s tax revenue. “Adedeji’s statement was a patriotic one,” Agbese said, “and it helped lawmakers understand that the bill is not regionally biased. It is designed to ensure fairness and equity in the distribution of tax resources.”

The Deputy Spokesperson also acknowledged that the House is committed not just to passing the bill but ensuring its effective implementation. “Once these bills become law, we will ensure they are implemented properly,” he said. “The 10th House of Representatives, under the leadership of Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, is focused on fostering trust among lawmakers and prioritizing the country’s needs above political or ethnic affiliations.”

Agbese concluded by stressing that the tax reform bills aim to address issues such as over-taxation, fairness, and equity. “The reforms we’re looking at will promote justice and ensure that the tax system works for all Nigerians,” he said.

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