Northern Elders, Others Criticize Tinubu Over Tax Reform Stance

Prominent northern leaders have expressed discontent with President Bola Tinubu's unwavering stance on the controversial tax reform bills, which he declared “non-negotiable” during his first media chat in Lagos. Critics argue that the President’s firm position lacks inclusivity and bypasses democratic consultation processes.

The northern voices, comprising National Assembly members, the Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), and the League of Northern Democrats (LND), emphasized the need for legislative independence and accused Tinubu of alienating lawmakers.

Legislators Push Back

Senator Mohammed Onawo of Nasarawa South highlighted the importance of allowing the National Assembly to scrutinize and decide on the bills independently. He called on Tinubu, a former legislator, to respect legislative processes, saying, “For a legislature as reputable as this one, it’s wrong for the President to insist that a bill must stand without legislative approval.”

Senator Ibrahim Gobir echoed similar sentiments, accusing Tinubu of “tribalism” and prioritizing select states. He criticized the proposed allocation of Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenue, asserting, “When I drink Pepsi in Abuja, I have to pay VAT to Lagos – why? If that’s the case, VAT for any northern produce should be paid to the North.”

Gobir warned that legislators would reject the bills unless substantial revisions were made, calling the current proposals “unbalanced and divisive.”

Northern Elders Voice Concerns

The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) expressed dismay at Tinubu’s unilateral approach, warning that his rigid declaration risks exacerbating tensions between the executive and legislative arms of government. NEF spokesman Abdul-Azeez Suleiman remarked, “The President’s pre-emptive declaration undermines democratic principles and risks unnecessary political friction.”

League of Northern Democrats Suggests Revisions

The League of Northern Democrats called for a more collaborative approach. Umar Sani, speaking for the group, acknowledged the need for tax reforms to curb corruption but criticized provisions like the inheritance tax, which he argued conflicts with religious principles.

Sani urged Tinubu to consider public opinion and avoid rigidity, stating, “The President should not offend the sensibilities of Nigerians by dismissing alternative perspectives.”

Background and Context

The tax reforms, recommended by the Taiwo Oyedele-led Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. These bills aim to modernize Nigeria’s tax system, eliminate outdated colonial frameworks, and streamline tax administration.

However, Tinubu’s insistence on their immediate implementation has sparked widespread criticism, particularly over perceived favoritism and insufficient consultation with lawmakers and stakeholders.

Calls for Consensus

As the controversy escalates, stakeholders across the country are urging the President to engage in broader consultations and ensure that the reforms address the interests of all Nigerians, not just a select few.