Isa Pantami Urges Wider Consultations, Cites Constitutional Concerns
Abuja, Nigeria — Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has called on the National Assembly to suspend legislative action on the proposed tax reform bills, citing potential constitutional conflicts and ambiguities in their provisions.
Pantami made this appeal on Tuesday through a post on his social media platform, X, amidst growing controversy over the proposed reforms. He emphasized the need for broader stakeholder engagement to address concerns and ensure the bills serve the national interest effectively.
“The bill has the potential to transform tax collection administration if improved and implemented in the national interest,” Pantami stated. However, he raised concerns over sections of the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024, which he described as vague and prone to exploitation by regulatory bodies.
Observations and Recommendations
Pantami highlighted specific issues, including potential conflicts with the Nigerian Constitution and the absence of clear definitions in several sections, which he said could hinder effective implementation. He urged the National Assembly to pause legislative action and engage stakeholders such as tax experts, constitutional and business lawyers, and policy researchers to refine the bills.
The former minister identified several sections needing urgent review, including Sections 3(3), 7(6), 8(2), 23, 28, 95, 96, 97, 118, and the supremacy clause in Section 141.
“In leadership, the ability to change one’s mind is a sign of intelligence and empathy, not weakness,” he remarked, encouraging lawmakers to prioritize national interest and transparency.
Building Trust Between Government and Citizens
Pantami also stressed the importance of rebuilding trust between the government and the Nigerian people, acknowledging widespread suspicion of government actions. “Our situation as a nation is deteriorating due to this mistrust. Building trust is crucial at this juncture for all arms and tiers of government,” he wrote.
As a policy researcher, Pantami expressed his intention to provide feedback on the remaining three bills in the future. He concluded his statement by urging leaders to act objectively and in the national interest while praying for the prosperity of Nigeria.
The proposed tax reform bills have sparked heated debates, with critics and stakeholders calling for clarity and accountability. Pantami’s intervention adds a significant voice to the growing call for thorough reviews and inclusive policymaking.
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