The Nigerian Senate leadership is reportedly reaching out to members of the Upper Chamber with inducements of at least $5,000 to secure the passage of the proposed tax reform bill.
According to sources within the Senate, the leadership has approached each Southern senator with the offer, while select Northern senators have also been included in the lobbying effort.
SaharaReporters gathered that concerns are mounting over potential compromises among legislators following allegations of monetary inducements being distributed within the chamber to sway votes in favor of Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reforms.
A source revealed, “The Senate leadership is offering $5,000 to each senator from Southern Nigeria and select senators from Northern Nigeria to lobby support for the tax reform bills.”
The Nigerian Senate is composed of 51 senators representing Southern Nigeria and 58 representing Northern Nigeria. These developments have sparked criticism and fears over the integrity of the legislative process concerning the tax reforms.
Senators Commit to Tax Reforms While Calling for Broader Consultations
The Nigerian Senate has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities, including the passage of laws that serve the best interests of the nation and its citizens.
“We pledge our full support to the Senate President and the leadership of the National Assembly as they work to ensure the effective and timely passage of legislation that promotes good governance, national unity, and economic development,” a statement from a Senate caucus read
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Addressing the Tax Reform Bills, the caucus stated: “Understanding the critical role of tax reforms in enhancing national revenue and ensuring economic stability, we have resolved to support the Tax Reform Bills.
“Our support will be based on a comprehensive review and in-depth evaluation of the bills’ contents to ensure they align with the broader interests of Nigerians, particularly the well-being of the South-South region.
“We call for restraint from those introducing sentiments, whether regional, ethnic, or tribal, into this national dialogue. We look forward to continued robust discussions and consultations as already initiated by the Senate.
“We remain committed to collaborating with our colleagues across the Senate and all relevant stakeholders to foster a legislative agenda that ensures the peace, prosperity, and progress of our nation.”
Meanwhile, the South-East Caucus in the Senate has withheld its endorsement of the controversial Tax Reform Bill, calling for wider consultations. Following a closed-door meeting of senators from the five South-East states in the office of their leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South), the caucus expressed its stance.
Speaking on behalf of the caucus, Abaribe stated, “The caucus does not oppose the proposed tax reforms. However, we believe that more extensive engagement with stakeholders is necessary before the bills are fully considered by both chambers.”
The South-East senators emphasized the importance of consulting constituents and stakeholders to ensure inclusivity and national alignment in the legislative process.
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