By Gift Chapi-Odekina, Abuja

The House of Representatives was thrown into a rowdy session on Tuesday following a controversial remark by the House Spokesperson and Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee, Rep. Akin Rotimi, concerning the contentious tax bills.

The commotion began when Rotimi, standing in for the absent Committee Chair, Rep. Boma Goodhead, attempted to present a report on Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring. During his remarks, Rotimi stated:

“My name is Akin Rotimi Jr. I represent the people of Ekiti North comprising Ikole and Oye Local Governments. Mr. Speaker, I am from Ekiti State, the first state whose National Assembly caucus has unanimously endorsed the tax bills.”

This comment sparked an uproar, with lawmakers vocally opposing the statement and chanting “No, No, No!”

Speaker Tajudeen Abbas intervened, clarifying that Rotimi’s comment was personal and should not be taken seriously. The Speaker cautioned him, saying:

“Restrict yourself to the subject matter. We are not discussing tax bills, as this is a very controversial issue. On your behalf, I withdraw the statement.”

Rotimi apologized and retracted his comment, but the lawmakers remained dissatisfied. They demanded he step down the report entirely. Yielding to pressure, Rotimi conceded, saying:

“I seek the leave of the Speaker and Honorable Members to step down the report.”

The incident underscored the heightened sensitivity surrounding discussions on tax reform within the legislature.