A former three-term member of the House of Representatives, Daniel Reyenieju, has urged the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, to adopt a more nationalistic approach to the Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration by the National Assembly.
Reyenieju described the demand for the withdrawal of these bills as not only misguided but also demonstrates a misunderstanding of the country's democratic process.
According to him, it is absolutely absurd for the NLC to call for such an extreme measure.
His words: "Parliaments worldwide serve as platforms where stakeholders can present their perspectives, engage in meaningful dialogue, and influence proposed legislation. Instead of undermining the legislative process, the NLC and other stakeholders should mobilize its members to provide data-driven arguments and engage constructively with lawmakers.
"The notion that stakeholders must be consulted before any bill can be discussed is a gross misrepresentation of democratic principles. Stakeholders are always welcome to share their inputs during the legislative process. The NLC's demands reveal an alarming sense of entitlement and a refusal to engage in the necessary work to effect real change.
"The incessant use of the term 'stakeholder input' appears to be nothing more than a buzzword, lacking any genuine commitment to participation. The NLC must recognize that constructive engagement is far more effective than blanket opposition. It is time for them to present their case with robust data and actively participate in the democratic process rather than resorting to grandstanding.
"This reactionary stance does a disservice not only to the tax reform initiative but also to the very workers the NLC claims to represent," Hon. Reyenieju stated. "The proposed bills aim to create a more equitable tax system that can drive national development. All voices should contribute to refining this framework rather than stifling it.
"The NLC's call for withdrawal is a blatant disregard for the legislative process and undermines the potential for genuine progress. I urge the NLC to abandon its ineffective tactics and embrace a more constructive approach to influencing policy."
