The House of Representatives descended into chaos during deliberations when Akin Rotimi, a lawmaker from Ekiti State, made remarks referencing the controversial tax reform bills.
Rotimi, standing in for the absent Committee Chair, Rep. Boma Goodhead, was presenting a report on Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring. The report pertained to a bill seeking to repeal the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Act 2010 and enact a new version.
During his remarks, Rotimi introduced himself, stating:
“My name is Akin Rotimi Jr. I represent the people of Ekiti North, comprising Ikole and Oye local governments. Mr. Speaker, I am from Ekiti State, the first state whose National Assembly caucus has unanimously endorsed the tax bills.”
This statement immediately sparked uproar, with lawmakers loudly opposing and chanting, “No! No! No!”
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas quickly intervened, cautioning Rotimi to stick to the report at hand. Addressing the chamber, Abbas clarified:
“Restrict yourself to the subject matter. We are not discussing tax bills, as this is a very controversial issue. On your behalf, I withdraw the statement.”
Rotimi apologized and retracted his comment, but his colleagues were not placated. They demanded that the report he was presenting be entirely withdrawn. Facing intense pressure, Rotimi conceded, saying:
“I seek the leave of the Speaker and Honorable Members to step down the report.”
Background on Tax Reform Bills
On October 3, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration. These include the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
The bills have sparked widespread controversy. The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) formally opposed the proposals on October 28, arguing that the bills would adversely affect the interests of the northern region. The governors called for their rejection and demanded equitable implementation of national policies.
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has also criticized the legislation, describing it as an attempt to “colonize the north.”
Despite mounting opposition, President Tinubu, on November 1, insisted that the bills would not be withdrawn, asserting that they aim to optimize tax administration and improve Nigerians’ lives.
Last Thursday, the Senate passed the bills’ second reading, pushing them closer to becoming law.
