Former communications minister Ali Pantami has urged the National Assembly to halt any legislative action on the controversial tax reform bills, calling for wider consultations.

“Suspend legislative action for now as some of the challenges could not be addressed by the chambers alone,” stated Mr Pantami.

While acknowledging the potential of the reforms to revolutionise tax administration in the country, Mr Pantami urged the bills to be worked on and implemented in the national interest.

“The bill has the potential to transform tax collection administration if improved and implemented in the national interest,” the ex-minister noted in a statement on Tuesday.

The ex-minister, however, stressed the need to subject the reforms to wider consultations, isolating “sections 3(3), 7(6), 8(2), 23, 28, 95, 96, 97, 118 and 14” for further review.

“In leadership, the ability to change one’s mind is a sign of intelligence and empathy, not weakness; and allow for wider consultations on the bills, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are contacted and any ambiguities are effectively reviewed and addressed,” Mr Pantami explained.

The proposed bills have come under heavy criticism, especially from northerners, including governors, who described the reforms as a ploy by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to emasculate the northern region.

Mr Pantami said the controversies were traceable to the lack of trust between the government and the people.

“The government must try to address the mistrust between it and its citizens, as our situation as a nation is deteriorating due to this mistrust. Citizens are largely suspicious.

“Building trust is crucial at this juncture for all arms and tiers of government. We must also prioritise our national interest over and above our personal interests. Issues must also be discussed objectively and critically,” stated the former minister.