The House of Representatives has suspended a scheduled debate on the Tax Reform Bills, originally set for Tuesday.
Cyber Reporters reports that this decision comes after mounting opposition from 19 northern state governors and several key lawmakers.
A memo signed by the Clerk of the House, Yahaya Danzaria, confirmed the suspension.
The memo, dated November 30, 2024, stated that the special session has been postponed to a later date.
According to reports, 73 lawmakers from northern states are firmly against the proposed bills. These lawmakers include 48 representatives from the Northeast and 24 federal lawmakers from Kano.
Senator Aminu Tambuwal, a former governor of Sokoto State, is also among those opposing the bills.
The opposition stems from concerns that the bills do not adequately address the unique fiscal realities and developmental needs of northern states.
The northern governors believe that the bills require more careful consideration and consultation to ensure that they meet the needs of all states.
The memo says a new date and venue for the session will be communicated later.
The House leadership has apologized for any inconvenience caused by the suspension and appreciates the understanding of all stakeholders.
The debate on the Tax Reform Bills will resume once further consultations have taken place.
The memo reads: “I am directed by the House leadership to inform all Honourable Members that the special session, initially scheduled for Tuesday, December 3, 2024, to discuss all the tax reform bills, has been postponed to a later date.
“This rescheduling is due to the need for further and broader consultations with all relevant stakeholders. A new date and venue for the session will be communicated in due course. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.”
