Senate And House Adjourn Plenary To November Amidst Controversy Over Tax Reforms

Amid controversy surrounding the tax reform bills recently forwarded to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu, both chambers of the National Assembly unexpectedly adjourned plenary sessions until November 19.

The adjournment, which has sparked speculation, comes after significant backlash from stakeholders, including state governors and members of the Senate, over proposed tax adjustments.

The Senate initially scheduled the bill for a first reading on Wednesday, listing it on its order paper.

However, with priorities shifted to the screening and confirmation of President Tinubu’s seven new ministerial nominees, the tax bill was deferred. By Thursday, the bill was conspicuously absent from the Senate’s agenda.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio called for an unscheduled closed-door session after brief proceedings on Thursday, reportedly to address matters of “urgent national importance.”

The closed session, lasting two hours, discussed pressing issues related to the tax reform proposals. Upon returning to plenary, the Senate only reviewed a report from its committee on agricultural institutions and deferred all remaining agenda items.

Shortly afterward, Akpabio abruptly adjourned proceedings, stating that plenary would resume on November 19, with senators focusing on oversight and committee duties until then.

The unexpected adjournment follows resistance from several prominent figures, including Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) and Senator Dandutse Muntari (APC, Katsina South).

During a recent Senate Finance Committee session, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman Zacch Adedeji attempted to clarify the objectives of the reform bills, assuring legislators that the measures would not impose additional tax burdens.

Nonetheless, some committee members insisted the timing was inopportune, citing economic strain on citizens.

The legislative break diverges from typical parliamentary practices, as lawmakers generally avoid recesses at this time of year to review budget proposals and related fiscal documents from the president.