Tax law controversy: ‘Speaker Abbas passed every leadership test in 2025’ — Agbese
The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has commended Speaker Abbas Tajudeen for his leadership, saying he successfully navigated a series of political and institutional challenges that could have fractured the Green Chamber in 2025.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, Agbese described 2025 as a defining year for the 10th House of Representatives.
He said that under Abbas, the House remained united and committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, despite intense pressure from both within and outside the legislature.
“Despite the many challenges we encountered in 2025, Speaker Abbas justified his leadership. He proved that leadership is not about convenience, but about standing on truth and making sacrifices for the collective good of the institution and the country,” Agbese said.
He highlighted several key issues that tested the Speaker’s leadership, including the controversy over alleged alterations of gazetted tax laws and recruitment into the National Assembly Service Commission, NASC.
According to Agbese, Abbas handled these sensitive matters with restraint, consultation, and strict adherence to parliamentary rules, ensuring unity and institutional integrity were preserved.
Regarding the tax law controversy, Agbese said: “Mr. Speaker acted swiftly by setting up a seven-member ad hoc committee to investigate the matter and report back to the House. He also directed the Clerk to re-gazette the tax laws to align with National Assembly approval. This shows responsive leadership and commitment to transparency.”
Agbese also cited Abbas’ handling of members’ welfare, constituency projects, and the Rivers State state of emergency as further evidence of his steady and principled leadership.
“Leadership is about service, sacrifice, and accountability. In 2025, Speaker Abbas passed every test placed before him not for personal glory, but for the stability of the House and the progress of our democracy,” he said.
