Senator Ali Ndume, lawmaker representing the Borno South Senatorial, has insisted on the need for President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the controversial tax reform bill.

Mr Ndume, who appeared on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, faulted the timing of the bill.

“As it is today, when you talk about reforms to Nigerians, whether good or bad, they misconceive you,” Mr Ndume noted.

Mr Ndume said the reform contains some contentions issues which must be subjected to further scrutiny.

“Reform is necessary if we have to move forward. I am not again reforms and I am not against the tax reform bills. My problem is first of all, timing.

“Let it be on record that my second issue with the bill is the issue of derivation. It makes the bill contaminated and contradictory in some cases.”

The tax reform bill has continued to generate mixed reactions from Nigerians, especially northerners, who argue that it’s not in the best interest of the country.

Mr Ndume harped on thorough and genuine constitutional amendment for the bill to stand.

“The constitution has to be amended for some of these provisions to be effective. I’m glad we are doing constitutional review so even if it means reviewing the constitution let’s do that”, he added.

Meanwhile, Peoples Gazette earlier reported that the controversial bill passed the second reading at the Senate on Thursday.

The passage followed a heated debate presented by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central).