By Yunusa Isa, Gombe
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has voiced strong opposition on the controversial tax reform bill recently presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly.
The organization raised concerns over several provisions in the bill, calling for a thorough review before its passage into law.
At a town-hall meeting in Gombe State University (GSU), the National Coordinator of the coalition Comrade Jamilu Charanchi, outlined the contentious aspects of the bill, demanding for clearer explanations on some shadow clauses.
The national coordinator urged Federal Government to provide Nigerians with comprehensive report on the outcomes of the fuel subsidy removal, as well as a transparent account of how the savings have been utilized.
Speaking at the event, Professor Abubakar Sadiq from the Federal University of Kashere echoed similar concerns, accusing of sinister motives behind the hasty and abrupt pushing of the bill despite significant opposition from across the country.
He stressed that “The proposed tax reforms could place undue pressure on Nigerians already facing severe economic challenges”.
The meeting, themed “Tax Reform: A Catalyst for Economic Growth or a Burden on Nigerians,” drew significant participation from civil society organizations and regional representatives.
An overwhelming 99% of the attendees expressed clear opposition on the bill, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction among the public.
The participants called for steady and careful study of the reform bills to arrive at mutual points agreed upon by all.
Gombe State CNG Coordinator Comrade Muhammad Usman Deba, further emphasized the potential negative impacts of the tax reform bill on northern states.
Deba noted that “While the bill aims to boost national revenue, it disproportionately benefit southern states, particularly those with higher economic activities, like Lagos. This imbalance could reduce the revenue shares allocated to our northern states, exacerbating existing economic disparities and potentially leading to migration and social unrest”.
He accused of lack of data-driven policymaking and transparency, urging the government to provide solid evidence supporting the proposed changes.
Comrade Deba called for a more inclusive approach, with a transparent and equitable revenue-sharing formula that involves consultations with stakeholders from across divides.
Participants at the CNG meeting urged the Nigerian Senate to halt deliberations on the bill and engage in more and wider consultations to ensure the reform, promotes national unity and balanced development.
They emphasized the need for a fair tax distribution system that ensures no region is marginalized in pursuit of economic growth.
The meeting brought together a cross-section of stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, community representatives, and advocacy groups that deliberated on the implications of the proposed tax reform bill especially on northern Nigeria.