Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the Tax Reform Bills. Dickson, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, firmly stated that the National Assembly would pass the bills despite opposition, adding that “heavens will not fall.”
The proposed legislation, which prioritizes the location of consumption as the basis for sharing Value Added Tax (VAT), has faced resistance from various northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum. Nevertheless, the Senate approved the bills for a second reading last Thursday, sparking intense debate.
Dickson Defends Legislative Action
Speaking to journalists at the National Assembly, Dickson said:
“The Tax Reform Bills, which passed second reading last week despite opposition, will ultimately be passed by the National Assembly. Arguments should be based on facts and statistics, not sentiments.”
He compared the current scenario to the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which was passed despite significant opposition from Niger Delta leaders seeking 10% statutory fees for host communities. The final legislation set the fee at 3%, yet, Dickson noted, “heavens did not fall.”
Call for Constructive Participation
Dickson encouraged those opposing the bills to present their concerns during the public hearing rather than relying on protests or sentiment. He emphasized that legislative processes are designed to incorporate diverse viewpoints and ensure fairness.
“The public hearing offers an opportunity for stakeholders to present their positions. Anyone with issues should bring facts and statistics to the table,” he stated.
Support for a Fairer Tax System
The senator highlighted how the proposed reforms aim to correct inequities in the current tax system, particularly for states like Bayelsa.
“Right now, taxes from Bayelsa are paid to Lagos State. This is an opportunity to review and correct such anomalies,” he argued.
While acknowledging that some states may earn less under the revised sharing formula, he urged them to approach the matter constructively, focusing on national interest rather than sentiment.
Dismisses Fears of Public Uproar
Addressing concerns about potential chaos at the public hearing, Dickson dismissed the idea as unfounded.
“Public hearings are platforms for dialogue, not intimidation. There will be no uproar. Just as the PIA was passed despite reduced percentages for host communities, these tax reforms will also pass, and heavens will not fall,” he concluded.
The senator’s remarks reflect the heated debate surrounding the Tax Reform Bills, which many view as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s economic governance.
