The House of Representatives has moved forward with deliberations on four tax reform bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu in 2024, as the proposed legislation successfully passed second reading on Wednesday.
According to The PUNCH the bills—Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill—were initially transmitted to the National Assembly six months ago, following recommendations from the Taiwo Oyedele-led Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.
With the latest legislative milestone, the bills will now proceed to a public hearing, a critical stage where stakeholders can provide input before final passage.
Despite advancing in the legislative process, the proposed reforms have faced strong opposition from various quarters, including northern governors and opposition politicians, who have called for their withdrawal.
Critics have raised concerns over potential constitutional conflicts and the broader implications of the reforms.
During the plenary session, lawmakers largely expressed support for the bills.
However, Representative Sada Soli cautioned that certain provisions could contradict the 1999 Constitution, particularly regarding revenue derivation. He emphasized the need for clarity to prevent legal uncertainties.
Other lawmakers also highlighted concerns over multiple taxation, particularly in property transactions, where both buyers and sellers would be required to pay taxes under the proposed framework.
Additionally, they requested that the 40 legislative acts affected by the bills be presented before Parliament for further scrutiny.
