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In response to the growing concerns surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bill, a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives, representing the Kiru/Bebeji Federal constituency of Kano State, Honorable Abdulmumin Jibrin, has stepped forward to clarify misconceptions, urging the public and stakeholders to approach the bill with patience and open-mindedness.
The former Chairman of House Committee on Finance while speaking on a monitored television programme, expressed support for the bill, emphasizing that opposition from his region is often based on misunderstandings and quick conclusions rather than a consensus view,
The prominent Northern lawmaker says, “There’s a crisis of perception here. People hear ‘tax reform’ and immediately assume it will negatively impact them, without ever taking the time actually to review the details of the bill. Many of the critics haven’t even looked at the bill closely. PresidentTinubu is seen as a tax and revenue-focused person, and because of that, when you hear discussions about the bill, people jump to conclusions. I urge everyone, including lawmakers, the media, and the public, to engage with the actual content of the bill before making judgements. It’s easy to assume, but if you look at the bill, you’ll see that it’s not about imposing new taxes on the common man. Instead, it addresses systemic issues and proposes reforms that benefit the broader society.”
The lawmaker argued that the bill includes protective measures, or “buffers,” designed to prevent any negative impact on Northern states. He emphasized that these provisions ensure the North would not be disproportionately affected, asserting,
“These buffers are important in safeguarding the interests of the Northern region. They ensure that, even as the tax system is reformed, the North will not face any adverse consequences. It’s important for us to understand that these measures are specifically aimed at protecting our region while we engage in this necessary reform.”
He stressed the importance of understanding the broader vision of the reforms,
“The reform is not just about addressing immediate concerns; it’s about setting a solid foundation for long-term growth. We have to look beyond now and understand that the adjustments being made are necessary for a more sustainable and equitable future. If we approach this with a unified mindset, we can create a tax system that truly benefits all Nigerians, regardless of their region or income.”
He expressed optimism about the benefits the tax reform could bring to Northern Nigeria, stating,
“The North has untapped potential, with our land, population, and consumption power. This bill presents a chance to strengthen our economic autonomy. While the process is still in its early stages, I encourage a collaborative approach, assuring Northerners that this reform is intended to benefit all regions, not to undermine any. The legislative process will allow for thorough debate and necessary adjustments, ensuring the outcome is a fair, balanced tax policy for everyone.”
The lawmaker concluded by emphasizing the long-term benefit of the reforms, asserting that they present an opportunity for collective action toward the prosperity of the North and the entire country. He further urged that politics should not cloud the nation’s judgement, encouraging all parties to focus on the broader objective of national progress.