"Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele Unveils Agenda to Tackle Rivers Crisis, Ramp Up National Security, and Push for Tax Reforms as Plenary Resumes"
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has announced that the Nigerian Senate will prioritize several critical issues as it resumes plenary on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The agenda includes addressing the political crisis in Rivers State, tackling insecurity across the nation, and advancing the Tax Reform Bills 2024. This announcement comes after a six-week recess that included the Easter and Eid-el-Fitr holidays, during which the Senate was largely inactive
Tax Reform Bills 2024: Bamidele emphasized that the first order of business will be the consideration of the Tax Reform Bills 2024. He described these reforms as essential for overhauling Nigeria's tax system and increasing national revenue. The proposed legislation aims to adjust the Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenue-sharing formula and introduce tax exemptions for low-income earners. Bamidele stated, “The reforms will support governments at all levels to fund projects and deliver the benefits of democracy to the people” 2[4]. The bills were initially drafted by the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms and have been a subject of extensive debate within the National Assembly.
Rivers State Political Crisis: The Senate plans to collaborate with the executive branch to mediate the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which has seen significant turmoil following the suspension of Governor Siminilayi Fubara and the appointment of a sole administrator. Bamidele noted the importance of reconciling all stakeholders to address the root causes of the crisis, stating, “The essence is to ensure that all stakeholders come to terms on the need to address the root causes of those issues and ensure proper reconciliation in the overriding public interest” 4. The South-South Governors’ Forum and the Nigerian Bar Association have expressed concerns regarding the emergency rule declared in Rivers, arguing that the situation did not warrant such drastic measures.
Insecurity in Nigeria: Bamidele raised alarms about the resurgence of insecurity, particularly in states like Benue, Borno, Katsina, and Plateau. He reiterated the Senate's commitment to combat terrorism and violence across the federation, stating, “We are committed to putting an end to all acts of terrorism across the federation” 4. The Senate intends to engage with security chiefs to develop effective strategies to manage these national security challenges, which have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement in affected regions.
Constitution Review: The Senate will also fast-track the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution, with the Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, leading the effort. Bamidele indicated that the review aims to strengthen Nigeria's federal structure and improve governance. Additionally, the Senate will initiate a review of the Electoral Act 2022 to enhance the credibility and transparency of future elections 2[4].
Screening of Presidential Nominees: As part of its legislative duties, the Senate will screen presidential nominees for various commissions, including the South-South Development Commission and others requiring Senate approval. This process is crucial for ensuring that qualified individuals are appointed to key positions within the government.
Bamidele's statement reflects a proactive approach by the Senate to address pressing national issues, emphasizing the need for legislative action to foster stability and development in Nigeria. The upcoming sessions are expected to be pivotal in shaping the legislative landscape and addressing the challenges facing the nation.
#Opeyemi Bamidele
#Senate
#Tax Reform Bills 2024
#Rivers State Crisis
#National Security
#Constitution Review
#Insecurity
#Presidential Nominees
#Legislative Agenda
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