The Nigerian Senate plunged into disorder during Wednesday’s plenary as a heated debate erupted over the controversial Tax Reform Bill, which was tabled for discussion despite not being listed on the Order Paper.
The session, marked by intense disagreements and shouting matches, underscored the contentious nature of the bill and procedural violations that several senators deemed unacceptable.
The uproar began when Senate Leader Michael Bamidele Opeyemi invoked Order 12(1) of the Senate Rules, seeking to suspend the chamber’s procedures to allow the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to provide clarifications on the Tax Reform Bill.
Opeyemi’s motion received the support of Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session.
Following this, the chamber approved the entry of the FIRS chairman and other tax experts, with instructions for the Sergeant-At-Arms to escort them in.
However, this move sparked fierce objections from Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who vehemently criticized the decision, citing Senate Rules that prohibit visitors from addressing the chamber on issues not included in the Order Paper.
Ndume expressed his frustration, warning that bypassing established legislative procedures on such a critical matter could undermine the Senate’s credibility.
“This is a very important matter,” Ndume declared.
“We should not, in any way, use the position of the Senate to flout our own rules. The Order Paper is clear.
If today’s agenda must include this bill, then there should have been a supplementary Order Paper.
We cannot address this issue without following due process.”Ndume argued that the Tax Reform Bill, being a subject of significant public interest, deserved thorough scrutiny and adherence to proper procedures.
He urged his colleagues to prioritize transparency and accountability, emphasizing, “Nigerians have spoken. The Governors have spoken.
The National Economic Council has spoken. We represent the people, and we swore an oath to defend their interests.
”Despite Ndume’s appeals, Deputy Senate President Barau insisted that the chamber’s actions were within its constitutional mandate. Barau dismissed Ndume’s concerns as unnecessary rhetoric, stating, “You have made your point. Now, let us move forward.
This chamber has no time for needless distractions.
”The plenary quickly descended into chaos, with senators raising their voices in opposition and support.
Amid the commotion, Barau ruled Ndume out of order and allowed the FIRS chairman and other tax experts to present their clarifications on the Tax Reform Bill.
The episode reflects deep divisions within the Senate on handling critical legislative matters. As the debate over the Tax Reform Bill continues, questions remain about procedural integrity and the extent to which lawmakers prioritize public interest over political maneuvering.
