AYCF: Northern governors generated needless controversy over tax bills

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) says the northern governors generated needless controversy over the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.

In October, Tinubu asked the national assembly to consider and pass four tax reform bills.

The proposed legislations are the Nigeria tax bill, tax administration bill, and joint revenue board establishment bill – but the northern governors kicked against them.

On Thursday, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), of which the northern governors are part, said they would support the bill, but proposed that there should not be an increase in value added tax (VAT).

In a statement on Friday, Yerima Shettima, national president of the forum, said the initial of the bills by the northern governors was a disservice to their people.

“After generating needless controversy and misleading the public, these governors have inexplicably capitulated to the reforms,” Shettima said.

“The northern governors initially presented a united front against the proposed tax reforms, citing concerns about their potential negative impact on the already struggling northern economy.

“This stance, while arguably understandable given the region’s socio-economic challenges, was fundamentally flawed.

“Their arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

“Instead of engaging constructively with the government to address specific concerns and negotiate amendments, they chose to employ divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress.

“This approach reveals a lack of foresight and strategic planning, highlighting their failure to effectively represent the interests of their constituents.”

The leader of the forum said effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous country.

“We firmly believe that the benefits of these reforms significantly outweigh any potential drawbacks.

“Increased tax revenue will allow the government to invest heavily in critical sectors, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all Nigerians, including those in the north.”

Shettima added that “their actions appear driven by short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the development of the north”.