The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) says the northern governors generated needless controversy over the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.
In October, Tinubu asked the national assembly to consider
and pass four tax reform bills.
The proposed legislations are the Nigeria tax bill, tax
administration bill, and joint revenue board establishment bill – but the
northern governors kicked against them.
On Thursday, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), of which
the northern governors are part, said they would support the bill, but proposed
that there should not be an increase in value added tax (VAT).
In a statement on Friday, Yerima Shettima, national
president of the forum, said the initial of the bills by the northern governors
was a disservice to their people.
“After generating needless controversy and misleading the
public, these governors have inexplicably capitulated to the reforms,” Shettima
said.
“The northern governors initially presented a united front
against the proposed tax reforms, citing concerns about their potential
negative impact on the already struggling northern economy.
“This stance, while arguably understandable given the
region’s socio-economic challenges, was fundamentally flawed.
“Their arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge
the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services like
healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
“Instead of engaging constructively with the government to
address specific concerns and negotiate amendments, they chose to employ
divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress.
“This approach reveals a lack of foresight and strategic
planning, highlighting their failure to effectively represent the interests of
their constituents.”
The leader of the forum said effective taxation is the
cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous country.
“We firmly believe that the benefits of these reforms
significantly outweigh any potential drawbacks.
“Increased tax revenue will allow the government to invest
heavily in critical sectors, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and
enhancing the overall quality of life for all Nigerians, including those in the
north.”
Shettima added that “their actions appear driven by
short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the
development of the north”.
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