A heated debate unfolded in the Senate today between Senator Ali Ndume and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the bone of contention was the invitation extended to FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, to address the Chamber on the Tax Reform Bill.
Senator Ndume vehemently opposed the move, citing Senate Rules that prohibit visitors from speaking on topics not listed in the Order Paper.
He emphasised that the Tax Reform Bill is too crucial to be handled without adhering to the proper legislative processes.
“Mr President you can have your way, but I will have my say. You can use your gavel and I will use my voice. This is very sensitive and our people have been dominated by this matter. The people have spoken, the governor’s,” he said.
On the other hand, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin justified the decision to allow experts to address the Chamber.
Jibrin overruled Ndume’s objection, paving the way for the visitors to present their views on the proposed Tax Reform Bill.
“You have made your point, can I respond to you. We are not here for rhetorics; we are acting on facts,” Jibrin added.
