…As Reps task RMAFC on fair, just review of revenue allocation
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has agreed with the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, Elias Mbam, on the need to review the 29-year-old revenue sharing formula, saying it was outdated.
“In its attempt to review the revenue allocation in the country, which was last done almost 30 years ago, the commission should ensure that all stakeholders are carried along and that all necessary things are done so that the final report could not be faulted,’’ he said.
Gbajabiamila, who hosted the management of the commission, led by its chairman, Elias Mbam, on a courtesy call on the leadership of the House at the National Assembly yesterday, said the current realities should necessitate a review of the revenue allocation.
He said: “I’m glad you’re here. Your commission is one of the unsung heroes. You’re of the 14 institutions established by the constitution, while all others were established by other laws.
“It’s almost 30 years that the last review was done. It’s such a long time. A lot has changed from 1992 to date.
“I charge you to do your review, not based on any sentiment. You should consult widely so that your report won’t be faulted. I’m glad you said you’re conducting public hearings. It’s good to do that, to seek people’s opinions. You should work based on the principles of justice, equity and fairness.”
He added that Nigeria was a peculiar country, hence the need to do a thorough and diligent review of the revenue sharing formula.
He said the House would support the commission in whatever way possible, noting that the commission’s management was at the right place to seek support
