….Lawmakers Cannot Be Bullied or Distracted
The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, clarified on Thursday that the Senate has neither suspended nor withdrawn deliberations on the Tax Reform Bills, 2024, contrary to reports circulating in some media outlets.
Speaking during plenary, Bamidele emphasized that the Senate’s legislative intent had been misrepresented, warning that the upper chamber would not succumb to external pressure or adopt procedures inconsistent with its rules and constitutional mandate.
Addressing the plenary presided over by Deputy Senate President Senator Barau I. Jubrin, Bamidele highlighted the Senate’s proactive approach to addressing concerns about the bills. On Wednesday, the Senate constituted a special committee chaired by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro to engage the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to resolve outstanding issues surrounding the proposed tax reforms.
Media Misrepresentation
Bamidele criticized sections of the media for inaccurately reporting that the Senate had suspended or withdrawn consideration of the bills. He invoked Order 42 of the Senate Rules and Sections 60 and 62 (1-4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to underscore the Senate’s commitment to due process.
“There is no part of the votes or proceedings of this Senate that indicates a suspension or withdrawal of deliberations on the Tax Reform Bills, 2024,” Bamidele said. “The bills are executive-sponsored, transmitted through the Office of the President, not private member bills. Therefore, only the executive arm can withdraw them, not individual Senators.”
He dismissed media claims suggesting the bills were “problematic” or a “conundrum,” reiterating that the Senate would address any concerns through its established legislative framework, including committee referrals and deliberations.
Defending Legislative Autonomy
Bamidele firmly stated that the Senate operates independently, guided solely by the 1999 Constitution. He rejected attempts by any individual or institution to dictate its procedures, warning against efforts to intimidate or distract the Parliament.
“What we do here is a reflection of our constitutional responsibilities—legislation, representation, and oversight. Misunderstandings of our legislative process should not lead to undue interference or misrepresentation,” he said.
He also assured Nigerians that the Tax Reform Bills, 2024, remain under active consideration and open to further dialogue, engagement, and refinement at various levels.
Call for Constructive Engagement
Bamidele concluded by encouraging constructive dialogue rather than sensationalism or misrepresentation, stressing the importance of consensus-building in the legislative process.
“We are committed to fostering discussions and engagements at all levels. However, we cannot be bullied into adopting procedures that undermine the integrity of the Senate’s rules and proceedings. The Tax Reform Bills, 2024, remain alive and under review,” he affirmed.
The Senate leader’s remarks underscored the upper chamber’s resolve to uphold its constitutional duties while maintaining its independence and commitment to transparency.
