A coalition of Northern groups, alongside 134 civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), has rejected President Bola Tinubu’s proposed Tax Reform Bills, citing potential harm to Nigeria’s socioeconomic stability, especially in the North.
At a town hall meeting in Gombe on Monday, themed “Tax Reform Bills: A Catalyst for Economic Growth or a Burden on the People?” participants expressed concerns that the reforms would intensify poverty, increase financial burdens, and further marginalize the North.
Comrade Muhammed Sanusi Ali, speaking on behalf of the coalition, criticized the proposed Value Added Tax (VAT) redistribution formula, labeling it unjust and skewed against the North. The defunding of key institutions such as TETFUND, NITDA, and NASENI also drew sharp rebuke, with participants warning that this could stifle education, technology, and infrastructure development in the region.
Additionally, ambiguities in the proposed bills, including terms like “derivation,” “family wealth,” and “ecclesiastic,” were flagged as risks for arbitrary enforcement.
The coalition unanimously demanded the withdrawal of the bills and called for broader consultations to ensure inclusive tax reforms that address the realities of all Nigerians. They urged Northern lawmakers to oppose the bills, warning of further destabilization and economic inequality if the concerns are not addressed.
The Federal Government has yet to respond to the criticisms raised.
