“Harmonize” Akpabio Didn't Rubbish Sen Musa – Senate President’s Office Clarifies

Office of the President of the Senate has denied reports circulating on social media and blogs alleging that Senator Sani Musa was embarrassed during a recent plenary session over his use of the word “harmonize” in relation to the Tax Reform Bills.

In a statement signed by Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Senate President, the reports were described as misleading and a product of “blackmail merchants” seeking online traffic and economic gain through sensationalism.

According to the clarification, the incident in question involved Senator Musa requesting a clarification on the term “harmonize” as used in the Conference Report on the Tax Reform Bills. 

During his remarks, he was interrupted by a Point of Order raised by Senator Abdul Ningi, who also sought clarification on the same term. 

In line with Senate rules, the presiding officer, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was obligated to allow the Point of Order to be addressed before proceeding.

The statement emphasized that Senator Musa was not unable to respond to any question and was not in any way embarrassed. 

It added that the session proceeded without any breach of decorum or tension, and that there was no instance where the senator was “rubbished,” contrary to online reports.

Senator Musa was described as a highly respected and influential member of the Senate who has played a key role in legislative matters, particularly in his capacity as Chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance and Chairman of the Conference Committee that worked on the Tax Reform Bills. 

His contributions were hailed as critical to the successful passage of the four bills, which have been praised by both legislative chambers and relevant stakeholders.

The statement further clarified that the term “harmonization” carries a specific meaning in legislative practice and that Senator Musa, as an experienced and educated lawmaker, was fully capable of articulating it.

It also reaffirmed Senate President Akpabio’s respect for all his colleagues and his commitment to presiding over the Senate in a bipartisan and respectful manner. 

The statement noted that Akpabio holds Senator Musa in high esteem, describing him as one of his closest allies and a stabilizing force in the 10th Senate.

The Office of the Senate President called on media practitioners and commentators to ensure that their reporting is based on verified facts rather than sensational narratives. 

It highlighted that the Tax Reform Bills are a strategic initiative inspired by President Bola Tinubu to transition Nigeria from an oil-dependent economy to one based on tax revenues.

The statement concluded by reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to legislative excellence and governance, stating that the institution will not be distracted by those who attempt to undermine its credibility for personal or financial gain.