- Northern groups in Nigeria have expressed strong opposition to the proposed Tax Reform Bills in the National Assembly.
- The groups, including the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), and Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), have listed several conditions that must be met before they will support the bills.
- The conditions include genuine inclusivity, transparency and accountability, addressing historical inequalities, and expanded consultations.
- The groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the tax reforms on the informal sector, which dominates the Northern economy.
- President Bola Tinubu has ordered a review of the bills to address growing concerns, and the Ministry of Justice has been directed to work closely with the National Assembly to address the issues.
Northern groups in Nigeria have expressed strong opposition to the proposed Tax Reform Bills in the National Assembly, citing concerns that the reforms will exacerbate existing economic inequalities and disproportionately burden the northern region.
The groups, including the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), and Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), have listed several conditions that must be met before they will support the bills. These conditions include:
- Genuine inclusivity: The dialogue must involve representatives from all segments of Northern society.
- Transparency and accountability: The government must provide clear explanations of the rationale behind the proposed tax reforms and how the revenue generated will be utilized.
- Addressing historical inequalities: The government must commit to addressing the historical inequalities that have contributed to the under-development of the North.
- Expanded consultations: The government must engage in expanded consultations with regional stakeholders to address concerns and build trust.
The groups have also expressed concerns about the potential impact of the tax reforms on the informal sector, which dominates the Northern economy. They fear that increased tax burdens could cripple these businesses, leading to job losses and further economic hardship.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a review of the bills to address growing concerns, and the Ministry of Justice has been directed to work closely with the National Assembly to address the issues.
