Governors Threatening Lawmakers Over Tinubu’s VAT Bill, Says House Spokesman

The deputy spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has accused some state governors of using coercive tactics to undermine federal lawmakers’ support for President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills. According to Agbese, certain governors have threatened to withhold reelection tickets for lawmakers who back the bills, which are currently under consideration by the National Assembly.

Agbese revealed that lawmakers would meet with Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, along with other tax experts, to discuss the proposed legislation. These bills, submitted to the National Assembly on September 3, 2024, aim to modernize Nigeria’s tax system based on the committee’s recommendations.

The reform package includes the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, establishing a fiscal framework for taxation, and the Tax Administration Bill, which seeks to clarify legal frameworks and reduce disputes. The Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill would replace the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act, creating a new revenue service, while the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill proposes a tax tribunal and ombudsman to streamline oversight.

However, the 36 state governors have expressed opposition, demanding the bills’ withdrawal to allow for broader consultations and public input. Despite this, President Tinubu has insisted that amendments can be made during parliamentary debate and has urged lawmakers to prioritize the country’s economic recovery.

Speaking in Abuja, Agbese described alleged efforts by governors to sway lawmakers through threats as futile. He stated, “Some governors are threatening members from their states with denial of return tickets for the 2027 elections if they support these bills.”

Agbese emphasized that the current House of Representatives is resolute and committed to supporting reforms that benefit the country. “We were elected by our constituents, not the governors,” he said. “We are progressive, intellectually sound, and dedicated to making Nigeria work.”

Lawmakers received copies of the bills to review ahead of today’s session with Oyedele and other experts. Agbese expressed confidence that the proposed legislation would pass with minor amendments. “We are prepared to polish these bills with a touch of patriotism and intellectualism,” he added.

Other lawmakers also weighed in on the debate. Afam Ogene, representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, called for patience and dialogue, emphasizing that the legislature must deliberate carefully to serve the nation’s best interests. Edo State’s Odianosen Okojie urged swift passage of the bills, praising President Tinubu’s bold economic policies. Meanwhile, Oluwole Oke from Osun State pledged to collaborate during the bills’ committee and public hearing stages.

Efforts to get comments from Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages.

The bills are expected to dominate discussions when the National Assembly resumes plenary on Tuesday, November 19.