The House of Representatives is preparing to consult with tax experts to thoroughly assess the implications of the Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly. This move follows a proposal from President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council, who recently introduced four executive bills aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s tax system, streamlining processes, and establishing a unified revenue service.

Deputy House Spokesman, Mr. Philip Agbese, confirmed this intention in an exclusive interview on Wednesday, stating that the legislature is committed to ensuring these bills are fully scrutinized, with input from all relevant stakeholders. He emphasized that the bills, which are the result of months of review by the Taiwo Oyedele-led committee, would be subjected to extensive consultations, including Town Hall meetings with Nigerians. These engagements aim to gather citizens’ opinions and foster transparency throughout the legislative process.

In a shift that reflects the ongoing debate, the 36 state governors recently requested the withdrawal of the bills for further consultation, after 19 governors expressed concerns over the potential negative impact on the North and state governments. Despite these concerns, the Presidency has urged Parliament to proceed with the bills’ consideration, while leaving room for amendments based on feedback from lawmakers.

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Agbese added that, where necessary, the House would bring in experts to explain the details of the proposed reforms, ensuring a thorough understanding of their potential impact. The House aims to stay true to its commitment as “the People’s House,” a slogan championed by Speaker Tajudeen Abass.

Additionally, House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda highlighted that his caucus had already begun preliminary discussions on the tax reform bills even before the governors’ objections surfaced. Chinda, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), assured that the minority’s position would prioritize the national interest. He stated that while the minority caucus does not oppose citizens paying taxes, they advocate for more equitable taxation policies that would avoid excessive burdens on the public. Instead, Chinda emphasized the need for cuts in public sector spending and better welfare for Nigeria’s lower-income population to reduce the growing wealth disparity in the country.