By Adeyemi Adekunle
Professor. Isa Ali Pantami, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, has urged the National Assembly to suspend deliberations on crucial tax reform bills to allow for wider consultations among stakeholders.
In a statement released after his recent attendance at the World Halal Summit 2024 in Turkiye, Pantami emphasized the urgent need for a thorough review of the proposed legislation to ensure it serves the best interests of the nation.
The former minister has expressed concern over the lack of clarity and potential constitutional conflicts within key provisions of the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024, one of four tax bills currently under consideration by lawmakers.
Having devoted roughly 40 hours to examining the bills since his return, Pantami raised critical observations that he believes warrant immediate attention. “The bill carries the potential to significantly enhance tax collection and administration if adequately improved and implemented,” he noted. However, he cautioned that several sections could lead to major complications without proper definitions, opening the door for regulatory bodies to exploit ambiguities in the drafting.
Pantami made it clear that the stakes are high, urging legislators to reconsider their timeline for advancing the bills. “I recommend two critical actions to the National Assembly,” he stated confidently.
“First, suspend legislative action for now, as some challenges cannot be addressed solely by the chambers. Demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to reassess one’s approach is not a sign of weakness, but rather of intelligence and empathy.”
The second part of his advice was equally crucial: “Allow for wider consultations with all relevant stakeholders. It is imperative that ambiguities are effectively reviewed and addressed.
” Pantami pointed out that inclusive discussions will foster a collaborative environment where various perspectives can be considered, leading to more robust legislation.
In his speech, Pantami specifically highlighted sections of the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill that require careful examination which are:
1) Section 3(3)
2) Section 7(6)
3) Section 8(2)
4) Section 23
5) Section 28
6) Sections 95, 96, 97, and 118
7) Section 141 (supremacy clause)
These amendments are vital, he asserted, as they will usher in a more transparent tax regime beneficial for both the government and citizens.
Pantami also called for involvement from tax, constitutional, and business legal experts in the enhancement of the bills. By welcoming diverse viewpoints and insights, lawmakers can create a more inclusive framework that ensures fairness and clarity.
Central to Pantami’s message was the pressing need for the government to rebuild trust with its citizens. “The current state of our nation is deteriorating partly due to a lack of trust,” he lamented. He pointed out that citizens remain suspicious of government actions and the legislative process, stressing that this environment of mistrust complicates governance, and progress can only be made if the government prioritizes national interests over individual agendas.
“Building trust is crucial at this juncture for all arms and tiers of government,” Pantami said. “We must engage in objective and critical discussions about issues affecting our nation and ensure that our actions are rooted in integrity.”
His call to action resonates in a time when the economy faces significant challenges, including fluctuations in revenue generation and public discontent over tax policies. Advocating for a comprehensive review of tax reform initiatives reflects a proactive stance toward fostering a more transparent and accountable tax system, which is vital for national development and economic growth.
