Senate Protests FIRS Chair’s Entry Over Tax Bill Debate
The Senate erupted in protest on Wednesday following the unexpected entry of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, and his consultants to discuss the contentious Tax Reform Bill.
The uproar began when the Upper Chamber, in an unusual move, suspended its rules to allow Adedeji and his team to provide clarity on the bill. While the decision was intended to facilitate a discussion, it was met with resistance from several lawmakers who voiced their dissatisfaction over the suspension of the Senate’s scheduled agenda.
Senators Sani Ningi and Ali Ndume led the opposition, raising objections against the move, which they felt bypassed the chamber’s normal proceedings. Ningi, visibly frustrated, took the floor to express his discontent, stating, “The order says our business will be based on what is on the order paper, and this matter is not listed. It’s not something you can just bring up. Mr. President, you may have your way, but I have my voice. We swear by the Bible and the Koran to protect the interest of the people. Are you saying that what a senator says here is just rhetoric?”
Despite his passionate objections, Ningi was ruled out of order by the presiding officer. The tension escalated as some senators threatened to stage a walkout but eventually rescinded their decision.
Senator Ndume also voiced his displeasure, citing the use of offensive language by the Deputy Senate President (DSP) during the heated exchange. He called for an apology, citing Senate Order 52, but was once again ruled out of order.
This series of events highlights the deepening divisions within the Senate over the Tax Reform Bill, a matter that has sparked significant debate. While the FIRS Chair and his team were eventually allowed to present their case, the protest by lawmakers underscored the contentious nature of the proposed reforms and the underlying frustrations surrounding the handling of the legislative process.
As the Senate continues its deliberations on the Tax Reform Bill, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges the government faces in securing legislative approval for key policies, particularly when it comes to tax-related reforms that impact both businesses and citizens. Police, JTF Launch Rescue Operation for Kidnapped Trio
