CurrentReport Blog Senator Abba Moro, Minority Leader of the Nigerian Senate, has refuted claims that Senate President Godswill Akpabio overruled his deputy, Jibrin Barau, regarding the controversial Tax Reform Bills.
The controversy arose after Akpabio reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to the Tax Reform Bills on Thursday, stating that no part of the bills had been suspended or withdrawn. This followed a Wednesday plenary session, presided over by Barau, where a committee led by Senator Moro was established to engage with the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to address contentious aspects of the bills.
No Overruling, Just Procedural Adjustments – Moro
Speaking to Channels Television on Friday, Moro clarified that Akpabio’s remarks were not an overruling of his deputy but part of normal legislative adjustments.
“I don’t see it as an overruling as such. The Deputy Senate President presided over the session; on the next day, the Senate President presided over the session,” Moro explained.
He noted that the idea of setting up a committee to liaise with the executive on the bills had been discussed earlier, and the subsequent adjustments to membership and procedures were routine legislative processes.
“This doesn’t have any insinuation of one overruling the other. It’s just a mere adjustment of membership and procedures to adopt in the process,” Moro added.
Senate’s Commitment to Legislative Mandate
Akpabio’s statement emphasized the Senate’s unwavering commitment to advancing the Tax Reform Bills while remaining steadfast in its legislative responsibilities. Senator Moro also reaffirmed the Senate’s focus on representing the Nigerian people and resisting external pressures.
The Tax Reform Bills have sparked widespread debate, with concerns raised over their potential impact on the economy and citizens. The newly established committee aims to address these issues through dialogue with the executive branch, ensuring that the final legislation aligns with the needs of Nigerians.
The Senate’s ongoing deliberations on the Tax Reform Bills reflect its commitment to addressing contentious issues while upholding legislative integrity. As the committee begins its engagement with the Attorney General, stakeholders and citizens alike anticipate a balanced outcome that promotes economic growth and fairness.
