Who Authorized It? Lawmaker Exposes Transmission Of Rejected Tax Bills

A House of Representatives member from Borno State, Ahmed Jaha, has expressed concerns over procedural irregularities in the passage of the tax reform bills, calling for greater clarity on certain provisions.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking to journalists after the bill passed its second reading in the House, Jaha, who represents Chibok/Damboa/Gwoza Federal Constituency, questioned how the bills were transmitted to the National Assembly.

“The bills were transmitted despite rejection by the National Economic Council (NEC), opposition from elders across the country, and disapproval from the Governors’ Forum, particularly the Northern Governors’ Forum,” he stated.

Jaha also emphasized that some provisions in the bill needed to be revisited for fairness and good governance, adding that the legislation had sparked significant controversy among lawmakers, who remained divided over its contents.

Support for Certain Provisions

Despite his concerns, Jaha supported some aspects of the tax reforms. He advocated maintaining the status quo but proposed ceding 20% of VAT revenue based on generation derivation rather than the headquarters’ location of companies.

“My position is to maintain the status quo. The highest concession I can make—both personally and on behalf of my constituents—is to cede 20% based on derivation rather than the location of corporate headquarters,” he explained.

Additionally, he backed the retention of key government agencies, stating:

“There is a consensus among House members that NITDA, NASENI, and TETFUND must not be scrapped, given their critical role in national development.”

Opposition to CEO Dual Role in Nigerian Revenue Service

Jaha strongly opposed a provision in the bill that allows the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Revenue Service to simultaneously serve as Chairman of the Board, warning that such a move concentrates too much power in one individual.

“You cannot be a judge in your own case. As the saying goes, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” he argued.

He also raised legal concerns about Section 141 (1) of the bill, which he believes attempts to elevate tax law above the Nigerian Constitution, making it legally problematic.

Rejection of Inheritance Tax

Jaha firmly rejected the introduction of inheritance tax, arguing that it contradicts Islamic, Christian, and traditional religious principles.

“In Islam, it is forbidden to take even a packet of pure water from an inheritance and give it to someone not entitled to it. Taxing a deceased person’s estate goes against Islamic teachings and also disrespects the beliefs of other faiths,” he stated.

Next Steps for the Tax Reform Bill

With the bill’s second reading completed, it will now move to the committee review stage, where lawmakers are expected to deliberate on key concerns and propose amendments before its final passage.