The Senate has stated that deliberations on the tax reform bills have neither been suspended nor withdrawn, affirming its commitment to advancing them.
During plenary on Thursday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the upper chamber remains focused on its mandate to represent Nigerians’ interests.
Akpabio further reiterated that the Senate would not be intimidated by external pressure amid the furore surrounding the bills.
“The Senate cannot be bullied. Any reform that we are convinced serves the interest of Nigerians will proceed. These bills contain provisions that are in the best interest of the public.
“We have not suspended or withdrawn deliberations on the tax reform bills. Any attempt to intimidate the Senate is undemocratic.
“These bills are executive communications, and only the executive arm can withdraw them. We remain steadfast in our legislative responsibilities.
“We don’t take orders from anyone or any office, no matter how highly placed,” the Senate leader noted.
Speaking further, he said that the Senate would do a thorough job on the bills presented to the House as further legislative actions have been taken.
Akpabio hinted that a special committee representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to engage with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi to address contentious issues surrounding the bills has also been formed.