Governors Threaten Reps: Reject Tinubu’s tax reforms or lose 2027 tickets

The bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, designed to establish a comprehensive fiscal framework for taxation in the country, and the Tax Administration Bill, which aims to provide a clear legal structure for tax matters and reduce disputes.

The 36 state governors have called for the withdrawal of the executive tax reform bills, citing the need for further consultation and public input.

However, President Tinubu has rejected their request, insisting that amendments to specific clauses can be made during debates in the Senate and House of Representatives.

In an exclusive interview in Abuja, Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, revealed that some state governors are holding meetings ahead of the National Assembly’s resumption to discuss the tax bills and other key legislations.

Agbese stated, “Some governors are threatening lawmakers from their states, even going as far as promising to deny them return tickets in 2027 if they support the bills.”

Despite the threats, the Benue lawmaker emphasized that he and his colleagues would not be swayed, as long as the bills are aimed at revitalizing the economy.

In an exclusive interview, Deputy Spokesman for the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, reiterated that the lawmakers would not be deterred by threats from state governors to deny them re-election tickets in 2027. Agbese emphasized that their support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms remains firm, saying, “As far as we are concerned in the House of Representatives, no one can stop us from supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to reboot the economy.”

He added that lawmakers are united across party lines in their commitment to making the country work, a stance that reflects the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abass. Agbese, quoting Isaiah 54:15, stated, “Behold, they shall surely gather, but not by me. Whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.”

Highlighting the difference in the current 10th Assembly, Agbese noted that today’s lawmakers are more intellectually sound, progressive, and pro-Nigeria. “We were elected by our constituents, not the governors, and we will support legislation that benefits those who elected us,” he said.

Agbese also revealed that on Monday, the House would engage Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, and other tax experts in preparation for the upcoming plenary. To ensure informed contributions, copies of the bills have been distributed to all lawmakers for independent review.

He expressed confidence that the proposed bills would likely pass with some amendments, saying, “I see the 10th House passing the bills with minor adjustments, marked by patriotism and intellectual rigor—qualities that come with having a teacher lead the parliament.”