The proposed Tax Reform Bills currently under review at the National Assembly have sparked outrage across Northern Nigeria, with youth groups accusing Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin of betraying the region.
Representing the 19 northern states, the Northern Youth Assembly criticized Jibrin for his role in presiding over the Second Reading of the bills, describing the reforms as “anti-North” and detrimental to the region’s socio-economic growth.
The Tax Reform Bills, introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, aim to streamline Nigeria’s tax system by:
– Promoting uniform tax revenue administration.
– Eliminating double taxation.
– Encouraging private-sector investment in critical industries.
– Offering targeted tax exemptions to boost disposable incomes.
The bills include:
1. Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 – SB.583.
2. Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024 – SB.584.
3. Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024 – SB.585.
4. Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 – SB.586.
Despite their stated goals, critics from Northern Nigeria argue that the bills would disproportionately harm the region’s economy, further marginalizing its citizens.
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In an open letter signed by President Ali Mohammed Idris and Secretary Abdulhafiz Garba, the Northern Youth Assembly accused Jibrin of ignoring the economic realities of Northern Nigeria. The group labeled the proposed laws as “evil” and accused Jibrin of prioritizing personal and political interests over the welfare of his constituents.
“Your support for the passage of the proposed evil tax reform bill is the highest order of insensitivity to the economic plight of Kano State and Northern Nigeria. This bill threatens to exacerbate poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation in the North.”
The youths also criticized the Deputy Senate President for allegedly imposing his views during the Senate plenary, which they claimed disregarded the interests of Northern lawmakers and citizens.
The backlash against the Tax Reform Bills extends beyond youth groups. Northern governors and the National Economic Advisory Council had previously rejected the bills, citing their potential to deepen economic inequality.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, however, defended the reforms, calling them “a significant move to overhaul the country’s tax system.” Despite these assurances, tensions boiled over in the Senate, with plenary sessions disrupted by heated debates and shouting matches over the proposals.
The Northern Youth Assembly warned Jibrin to reconsider his stance or face widespread mobilization against him.
“Northern Nigeria requires leaders who champion its interests, not lobbyists willing to auction the region’s future for political gain. We are committed to fighting this cause with every resource at our disposal.”
The group emphasized the urgency of addressing critical issues like electricity shortages, rampant insecurity, poverty, and unemployment in the region instead of supporting policies they believe will worsen the situation.