Nigerian Northern leaders have expressed strong disapproval over President Bola Tinubu’s stance on the contentious tax reform bills.
The President has declared that there will be no reversal on the bills, which has been met with criticism from leaders in the North, including members of the National Assembly, the League of Northern Democrats, and the Northern Elders’ Forum.
These leaders have argued that the President’s firm position is unilateral and lacked inclusive consultations.
Senator Mohammed Onawo, who is representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District, emphasized the importance of adhering to due legislative procedures, stating that the President should allow National Assembly members to perform their duties without interference.
The tax reform bills, transmitted to the National Assembly on September 03, 2024, aim to provide a fiscal framework for taxation, reduce disputes, and establish a clear legal framework for all taxes.
However, Northern leaders are concerned that the bills will disproportionately benefit certain regions, particularly Lagos, Rivers, and Ogun states.
Senator Ibrahim Gobir of Sokoto East in the 9th Assembly, accused the President of playing “politics of tribalism” with the tax reform bills, highlighting the proposed allocation of value-added tax revenue as a major issue.
The Northern Elders’ Forum cautioned the President against causing a crisis between the executive and legislative arms of government.
The League of Northern Democrats urged the President to review certain aspects of the bills, such as the inheritance tax, which they claim is against religious principles.
They emphasized that their position is not against the bills entirely, but rather a call for careful consideration and review.
The controversy surrounding the tax reform bills has sparked intense debate, with many calling for a more inclusive and consultative approach to taxation reform.
