Kehinde Fajobi
The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has criticised northern governors for generating what it termed a “needless controversy” over President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills.
In October, Tinubu presented four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration, including the Nigeria Tax Bill, Tax Administration Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
Initially, northern governors opposed the reforms, citing concerns about their impact on the region’s economy.
On Thursday, however, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), including the northern governors, announced support for the bills, with a recommendation against increasing Value Added Tax (VAT).
Yerima Shettima, AYCF’s national president, in a statement on Friday, described the governors’ initial opposition as a disservice to their people.
“After generating needless controversy and misleading the public, these governors have inexplicably capitulated to the reforms,” he said.
Shettima accused the governors of employing divisive rhetoric instead of constructively engaging with the government.
“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 AYCF president emphasised the importance of taxation as a cornerstone of national development.
“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 further alleged that the governors’ initial resistance was driven by “short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the development of the north.”