A powerful coalition of civil society groups has thrown its weight behind the leadership of Nigeria's National Assembly for its handling of the ongoing review of the country's major tax reform legislation.
Coalition Praises Constitutional Approach
No fewer than 100 civil society organisations, spearheaded by the Parliamentary Support and Advocacy Network (PSAN) and the Civil Rights Situation Room on Economic Reforms, publicly expressed their support. The endorsement was announced at a press conference held in Abuja on Monday.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, convener Comrade Ogiri John commended the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and the Senate President for their response to public concerns over the recently assented laws. John described the Assembly's actions as "measured, constitutionally grounded, and institutionally exemplary."
"Having undertaken a careful and dispassionate examination, we are convinced that the response of the National Assembly Leadership has been exemplary in its adherence to constitutionalism and institutional self-regulation," John stated.
Actions Aligned with Law and Procedure
The coalition highlighted that the steps taken by the Speaker Abbas-led House and the Senate are fully in line with:
- The 1999 Constitution (as amended)
- The Acts Authentication Act
- Established parliamentary rules and procedures
The groups strongly emphasised that this procedural review is not a sign of weakness. "This is not an admission of any deficiency, nor an erosion of authority. Rather, it represents the deliberate exercise of institutional responsibility," they clarified.
They specifically praised the directive issued to the Clerk of the National Assembly to facilitate the re-gazetting of the Acts and to provide Certified True Copies upon request. The coalition described this move as a vital step to "enhance transparency, restore public confidence, and affirm that citizens and institutions must have unimpeachable access to the authentic law."
High Stakes of Tax Reform for Nigeria
Comrade John underscored the profound importance of getting the tax reforms right, while defending the careful procedural approach.
"The stakes are profound. These tax reform laws will fundamentally shape Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, economic incentives, investment climate, revenue mobilisation, and prospects for inclusive growth," he explained.
He added a powerful defence of meticulous law-making: "Precision in law-making is not delay; it is duty. Certainty in law is not weakness; it is strength."
Call for Patience and Conclusion of Process
The coalition made a direct appeal to Nigerians, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to exercise patience. They urged that the constitutional review process be allowed to conclude without the application of undue pressure.
While reaffirming their strong support for the transformative economic reforms the laws aim to achieve, the groups stressed their unwavering commitment to the rule of law and institutional integrity. Their endorsement signals a significant backing for the National Assembly's methodical approach during this critical period for Nigeria's economy.
