The Office of the Senate President has refuted circulating reports alleging that Senator Sani Musa was embarrassed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a recent plenary session over the use of the word “harmonize” in relation to the Tax Reform Bills.
In a statement issued by Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Senate President, the claims were dismissed as misleading and the handiwork of “blackmail merchants” seeking to gain online attention and financial benefit through sensationalism.
The statement clarified that the incident arose when Senator Musa requested clarification on the term “harmonize” as it appeared in the Conference Report on the Tax Reform Bills.
During his remarks, Senator Abdul Ningi raised a Point of Order also seeking clarification on the term.
Following Senate procedures, Senate President Akpabio allowed the Point of Order to be addressed before proceeding.
Contrary to online reports, Senator Musa was neither unable to respond nor embarrassed at any point during the session.
The proceedings continued calmly without breach of decorum or tension.
The statement described Senator Musa as a respected and influential lawmaker, noting his crucial role as Chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance and Chairman of the Conference Committee that worked on the Tax Reform Bills.
His contributions were vital to the successful passage of the four bills, which have received praise from both chambers of the National Assembly and key stakeholders.
Further, the statement explained that the term “harmonization” has a specific legislative meaning, and Senator Musa, an experienced legislator, was fully capable of articulating it. Senate President Akpabio was said to hold Senator Musa in high regard, considering him a close ally and a stabilizing figure in the 10th Senate.
The Office of the Senate President urged media practitioners and commentators to report responsibly, basing their coverage on verified facts rather than sensational narratives.
It emphasized that the Tax Reform Bills form part of a strategic initiative inspired by President Bola Tinubu aimed at transitioning Nigeria’s economy from oil dependency to one driven by tax revenues.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to legislative excellence and governance, warning that attempts to undermine its credibility for personal or financial gain will not distract the institution.