It is evident that the proposed tax reform bill submitted to the National Assembly by the Presidency has sparked widespread criticism and opposition from various societal groups, including academia, professionals, civil society organizations, students, traditional and religious leaders, and other stakeholders. This time, the dissent is not limited to the governed; several Nigerian governors have also openly expressed their lack of confidence in the bill. Some criticized it for being biased against certain regions, while others rejected it entirely, citing its lack of merit or suggesting it reached the Assembly through questionable procedures. This situation clearly signals significant tension and dissatisfaction.
Distinguished Parliamentarians,
As representatives of the people, you are entrusted with the critical responsibility of safeguarding their interests and ensuring just governance. While the Executive may have its agenda on issues of national importance, your duty is to uphold the rule of law and protect democratic ideals by prioritizing the needs and demands of your constituents.
Following a detailed analysis of public opinion on the proposed tax reform bill—which appears to have been widely rejected—we have identified the following concerns:
1. Lack of Merit: The bill fails to reflect a nationalistic approach and does not align with the principles of fairness and equity.
2. Economic Priorities: In light of the nation’s fragile economic state, the immediate focus should be on implementing bailout programs to stabilize the economy. Introducing additional taxation, particularly on personal income and value-added tax (VAT), is ill-timed and could exacerbate economic hardship.
3. Exclusion of Stakeholders: The bill was drafted without adequate input from professionals and the general public. As a key democratic institution, the National Assembly must ensure that inclusive decision-making processes are upheld. The lack of broader consultation at the Executive level before presenting the bill is a significant oversight that must be addressed.
4. Redistribution Formula in Section 77: The proposed redistribution formula, which allocates 60% of VAT ownership to states based on consumption location, contradicts existing laws that emphasize revenue distribution based on equality and population rather than consumption location.
We urge the National Assembly to remember its constitutional mandate to uphold the principles of justice and fairness. It must resist any form of bias, sectionalism, or divisive policies that could widen economic disparities among regions.
As a patriotic and law-abiding organization committed to Nigeria’s unity, the Arewa Dignity Advancement Initiative reaffirms its dedication to democratic ideals and the principles of fairness, equity, and natural justice.
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Signatures:
Baheejah Mahmood. Abdullahi. Bauchi State.
Chairperson
Hon Musa Ibrahim Bere. Kebbi State.
Hon Ibrahim Mohammed Adamawa State.
Comrade Abdullahi Wadata Isa Bauchi State.
Hon. Abubakar Muhammad. Kano State.
Secretary.
