Kehinde Fajobi
Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, has refuted claims that the panel failed to consult Nigerian governors while drafting the proposed tax reform bills.
The bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 and the Tax Administration Bill, aim to overhaul the nation’s tax system.
However, they have faced opposition from groups like the Northern Governors Forum and the Northern Elders Forum.
Elder statesman Buba Galadima recently alleged that the committee only consulted the Lagos State governor and ignored others, favouring certain states.
Speaking on Arise TV on Sunday, Oyedele countered the accusations, explaining that efforts to engage governors were hindered by cancellations.
“We wrote and sought to meet six governors from the geopolitical zones. Only the Lagos State governor was available. The Kaduna State governor agreed but later sent his deputy. Other governors didn’t make time for us,” he said.
He also revealed that the Governors’ Forum invited the committee four times but cancelled each meeting. “On the fifth occasion, we waited until 1:30 a.m. and were given just 15 minutes to speak,” he added.
Oyedele detailed the committee’s extensive consultations with other stakeholders, including finance commissioners, IRS heads, manufacturers, and SMEs.
He said over 40 sectors were engaged, and the consultations were publicised.
Addressing northern concerns, he highlighted engagements with over 120 northern clerics, the League of Northern Democrats, and other groups.
“We had an interesting meeting with the Ulamas, and many prayed for us after we clarified misconceptions. We remain open to discussions with anyone,” Oyedele stated.