The Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro on Thursday expressed concern that the ongoing discussion regarding Nigeria’s proposed tax reform measures has become increasingly politicised.
The lawmaker representing the Benue South called for a more focused examination of the proposed legislation.
In an interview with Arise TV, the lawmaker emphasised the importance of addressing the concerns raised by critical stakeholders against the bills.
He said the legal implications of some provisions in the bills should be carefully looked into.
Senator Moro pointed out that one of the central issues raised is the proposed changes to the Value Added Tax, VAT distribution model, which critics argue could disproportionately disadvantage some states in the northern region.
According to Moro, the concern of some people is “that the current VAT distribution system”, which is based on equity, equality, and population, may not be adequate under the proposed law.
He said, “I dare want to say that it is the politicisation of this bill that is, in the first place, responsible for where we are now, so I don’t want to look at the political side of it.
“I think that by the time further advocacy and sensitisation is carried out, very many people who, out of lack of understanding, apparently may have been kicking against this bill, will come to realise that the bill means well for the entirety of Nigeria.”