Borno South Senator, Ali Ndume, has voiced strong concerns over the swift progress of tax reform bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s *Politics Today* program, Ndume questioned the urgency shown by the presidency and certain lawmakers in pushing the bills forward, calling the process “suspicious.”
The tax reform bills, which passed a second reading in the Senate on Thursday, have stirred significant debate. Critics, including Ndume, argue that more consultation is needed before the legislation is finalized.
While President Bola Tinubu insists the bills should proceed through legislative processes, the National Economic Council (NEC) has recommended withdrawing them for further review. Ndume aligns with the NEC’s position, advocating for a more deliberate approach.
“It is not that I am totally saying that we should throw away the baby with the bath water, but since the governors who are our leaders, the National Economic Council and many individuals have said that it is not that we should throw away the bills, no.
“Withdraw the bill, do more consultations and then bring the bill again. Why are they in a hurry,” Ndume queried.
Citing historical context, Ndume compared the tax reform bills to the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which took years to navigate the legislative process.
He recalled its lengthy journey from his tenure in the House of Representatives to eventual passage while he served in the Senate. According to him, this contrasted with the current rush surrounding the tax reforms.
Timing is another key issue for Ndume. He argued that introducing tax bills now, when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship, is poorly planned.
“I disagree with the timing because Nigerians are struggling to survive,” he said. He added that the opposition is not rooted in resistance to taxes themselves but in concern for citizens’ ability to cope.
Ndume further explained that historically, Nigerians, particularly in the North, have willingly paid taxes. However, he believes the government should focus on timing reforms when citizens are more financially stable.
“The best time to present the bills is when there is no hunger,” he noted, likening the reforms to a paradoxical act of giving with one hand and taking back with the other.
Addressing accusations that his stance is politically motivated to undermine President Tinubu, Ndume rejected such claims. Instead, he stated his opposition is aimed at ensuring the administration’s success and preventing policies that could harm Nigerians during challenging times.
