By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Senator representing Akwa Ibom South, Dr Ekong Sampson has assured that the Nigerian Senate would subject the proposed tax reform bill to comprehensive public scrutiny, ensuring that Akwa Ibom’s interests are safeguarded.
He has also said that the Akwa Ibom Senate Caucus (ASC) would collaborate to ensure participatory access for inputs by indigenes before the Tax Reform Bill would be passed into law.
Speaking at a forum organised by the the Correspondents Chapel’s of the NUJ in Uyo yesterday, Sampson emphasised the importance of public inputs, as a guarantee for fairness in legislative processes.
“In lawmaking, we consider all components, including public opinion. There are areas in the tax reform bill that hold profound significance for Akwa Ibom State. Why should oil companies operate on our shores but pay taxes to other states?
“We will spare no effort to ensure that Akwa Ibom’s interests are protected,” he assured, and disclosed that the three Senators representing the State are united in their resolve to champion Akwa Ibom’s cause during deliberations on the Bill.
The event which featured a lecture themed “Ethical Issues: AI and Digital Journalism in the 21st Century”, by Dr. Uduak Akpan, of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, also served as a platform for thought-provoking discussions on the evolving media landscape, and the unveiling of the ‘Critique’ magazine, on salient issues on politics and the society.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Emmanuel Abraham who is also the Chairman, Topfaith group of Institutions, urged Journalists to skillfully integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Original Intelligence(AI), for a more impactful reportage and stressed the need for ethical considerations as the media adapts to the emerging technological. innovations.
Comrade Bassey Anthony, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, explained that the annual forum had always served as a platform to train members who report Akwa Ibom’s activities to the rest of the world.
He noted that the unveiling of the magazine showcased the dedication and hard work of members of the chapel.
In his remarks, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong appreciated the Correspondents’ Chapel for their professionalism and contributions to governance.
Ememobong assured attendees of Governor Umo Eno’s recognition of their efforts, acknowledging the significant work that went into producing the compendium.
