Senator Monguno Criticizes Ndume’s Support For Controversial Tax Bills

Senator Monguno Criticizes Ndume’s Support For Controversial Tax BillsSenator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, the Senate Chief Whip, has expressed strong disagreement with Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South over the controversial tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.

On Thursday, the 10th Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, passed four key tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu for a second reading. The bills, which were debated by Senate Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, are designed to reshape the country’s tax framework. Among the bills is the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, aimed at providing a comprehensive fiscal structure for taxation in the country, and the Tax Administration Bill, which seeks to streamline tax processes and reduce disputes.

However, the passage of the bills was not without contention. Senator Ndume had earlier voiced concerns about the timing of the bills, suggesting that introducing such major reforms amid widespread public skepticism about the current administration could lead to resistance. He proposed that the bills be withdrawn for further consultation with stakeholders, including the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and traditional rulers.

In response, Senator Monguno rejected Ndume’s suggestion to withdraw the bills, labeling it “theoretical” and incompatible with the Senate’s established legislative processes. Speaking on the Senate floor, Monguno emphasized that Ndume’s proposal did not align with the Senate’s procedural rules and was not deserving of serious consideration.

“I respectfully disagree with Ndume,” Monguno said. “The idea of withdrawing the bill for further consultations is foreign to our legislative practices. Our rule book clearly outlines the procedures for lawmaking, and the Constitution grants us the authority to regulate our proceedings. The suggestion to withdraw the bill is purely academic and should not be entertained.”

Monguno went on to reiterate his full support for the bills, calling them “novel” and beneficial for the Nigerian people. He argued that the proposed tax reforms would help reduce the tax burden on citizens and improve the country’s fiscal landscape.

“This bill is for the people, as it seeks to alleviate the tax burden on Nigerians. I support the bill moving forward for a second reading,” Monguno concluded.

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