The Senate last Thursday passed the tax reform bills for second reading amid tension despite a one hour close-door session to calm frayed nerves so that the federal lawmakers csn have a smooth debate on the general principles of the fiscal legislations.

The suspension follows extensive deliberations by lawmakers to resolve disagreements over key provisions of the proposed legislation

THE debate on the tax reform bills has sparked significant pushback, particularly from Northern politicians and elders.

Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah said the controversial tax reform bills the tax must lead to the development of the "thoroughly dysfunctional country" (Nigeria) again.