President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Ministry of Justice to collaborate with the National Assembly regarding the Tax Reforms Bills. The bills have sparked debates and disagreements, particularly among northern governors and lawmakers who are against them. Critics fear that the reforms could disrupt fiscal federalism and impact state revenues.
To address concerns, President Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Justice to work with the National Assembly to ensure all genuine issues are resolved before passing the bills. This directive aims to promote transparency and accountability in the legislative process.
Despite opposition from some northern leaders, such as governors from the 19 Northern States, there are also supporters of the bills, including Governor of Nasarawa State Abdullahi Sule and former Speaker of the House of Representatives Yakubu Dogara.
The Senate has passed the bills for a second reading amid criticism. The Presidency clarified that the tax reforms aim to benefit all states and regions in the country, emphasizing that the bills will not disadvantage any particular area.
Support for the tax reform bills has also come from various quarters, including some northern youths, Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, and Catholic Bishop Hassan Kukah. These individuals believe that the reforms could lead to better fiscal management and economic progress for Nigeria.
The Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly has endorsed the tax reform bills, highlighting their potential to enhance revenue generation, simplify the tax system, and stimulate economic growth. Similarly, Labour Party Senator Neda Imasuen expressed support for the bills, calling them timely and necessary.
On the other hand, the Arewa Dignity Advancement Initiative has urged the National Assembly to reject the bills, citing concerns about additional taxation and the redistribution formula proposed in the bills. The group emphasized the importance of inclusive decision-making processes and consideration of the bills’ potential impact on economic hardship.