The Coalition of Northern Groups, (CNG), has pledged to continue its opposition to the Federal Government’s tax reform Bills currently before the 10th National Assembly, demanding the suspension or withdrawal of the proposed legislation.
Recall that some northern lawmakers have also signified their opposition to the tax reform Bills. Both groups have called for the withdrawal or suspension of the Bills.
The CNG warned of significant political consequences, including potential voter backlash in the 2027 elections. During a town hall meeting in Damaturu, CNG National Coordinator Aliyu Charanchi criticized the Bills, describing them as a burden on Nigerians.
Themed: “Tax Reform Bill: A Catalyst for Economic Growth, or a Burden on the People?”, the event highlighted concerns over the legislation’s unclear provisions.
Charanchi questioned the necessity of the reforms, arguing they fail to address Nigeria’s core economic challenges and calling for broader public consultation. He warned lawmakers that failure to act could result in their removal from office during the next electoral cycle.
Similarly, northern lawmakers in the National Assembly have vowed to oppose the Bills as the legislature resumes. Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno-South constituency, outlined key objections, including poor timing, constitutional concerns over derivation, opposition to the proposed VAT increase, and inadequate stakeholder consultation. “This reform is against the principles of Nigeria’s federal system,” he asserted.
Despite the Bills passing the second reading in the Senate before the Yuletide break, widespread controversy has led to further consultations. A Senate committee led by Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro is engaging with the Attorney-General of the Federation to address these concerns. However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has maintained his commitment to the reforms, arguing they are necessary for economic modernization.
Several lawmakers, including Bashir Zubairu (Kaduna), Kabiru Alhassan Rurum (Kano), and Dr. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani (Kano), have condemned the bills, describing them as draconian measures designed to disadvantage the North. Zubairu accused proponents of the bills of using underhanded tactics, stating that: “This legislation is an imposition that we will resist to protect millions of Nigerians”.
While opposition mounts in the North, some lawmakers from other regions have defended the reforms. Babajimi Benson (Lagos) and Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka (Ogun) argued that the bills aim to modernize an outdated tax system and promote economic fairness. Benson expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s intentions, emphasizing that the reforms are not regionally targeted but designed to spur nationwide growth. “The President is committed to policies that benefit all Nigerians”, he added.
As debates resume, the tax reform Bills remain a contentious issue, with the 10th National Assembly facing a critical decision that could shape Nigeria’s economic future and political landscape.
