Northern Nigeria Unites Against Tinubu’s Proposed Tax Reform Bills
By:- Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu.
December 5, 2024
The recent tax reform bills introduced by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu have sparked widespread resistance across Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region. From religious leaders to youth groups, women’s wings, civil societies, traditional leaders, educationists, and political parties, Nigerians from all walks of life have expressed their opposition to these proposed reforms. The overwhelming sentiment is clear: these bills will exacerbate the existing hardships faced by the majority of Nigerians.
The Progressive Amalgamation for Northern Nigeria (PANN), under the leadership of Hon. Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu, has been at the forefront of this resistance. Speaking on behalf of the organization, Hon. Bala unequivocally stated that Nigerians reject the proposed tax reform bills. He noted that the administration of President Tinubu has consistently introduced policies that deepen the suffering of ordinary citizens. Examples include the removal of fuel subsidies, cuts in educational and healthcare funding, and the deregulation of electricity tariffs, all of which have resulted in unprecedented economic strain on Nigerians.
The opposition to the tax reform bills has been particularly pronounced in the Northern region, where the majority of the population already struggles with poverty, insecurity, and inadequate social services. The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) recently issued a strong statement opposing the bills, arguing that the proposed legislation disproportionately harms the region’s economic interests.
Additionally, the National Economic Council (NEC) has called on President Tinubu to withdraw the bills to allow for broader consultations. This demand reflects a growing consensus that such significant fiscal changes require public engagement, transparency, and input from all stakeholders.
While genuine protests against the tax reform bills have erupted across the nation, it is disheartening to note that some groups have been sponsored to feign support for the bills. Youths under the guise of various associations have been mobilized to stage pro-tax reform demonstrations at the National Assembly. These actions, orchestrated by individuals born with silver spoons who are disconnected from the realities of average Nigerians, have been condemned as deceptive and harmful.
Several leaders have demonstrated courage in opposing the tax reform bills. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has been vocal in challenging the proposed legislation, earning widespread respect for his commitment to his people. Similarly, Mr. Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has called for comprehensive public engagement and transparency in the tax reform process. Obi’s emphasis on dialogue underscores the critical need for reforms that address the nation’s challenges rather than adding to its burdens.
Under the Tinubu administration, Nigerians have experienced relentless economic hardship. Families struggle to afford basic necessities such as food, education, healthcare, and electricity. Many can barely manage one meal a day, let alone two. These challenges have created an atmosphere of frustration and disillusionment, particularly among Northern Nigerians who historically supported the APC.
President Tinubu’s tax reform bills further deepen the divide between the government and the people. Rather than addressing pressing issues like insecurity, hunger, and poverty, the administration appears focused on implementing policies that disproportionately benefit the elite while neglecting the masses.
Nigerians are united in their appeal to President Tinubu and the National Assembly: withdraw the proposed tax reform bills. The bills not only undermine the economic stability of millions but also risk alienating the Northern region—a stronghold of support for the APC in past elections.
If the current trajectory continues, the APC risks losing the trust of the Northern electorate in 2027. Nigerians, particularly those from the North, demand a government that prioritizes their welfare, addresses insecurity, and alleviates poverty rather than imposing additional financial burdens.
The time for action is now. It is incumbent upon President Tinubu and the National Assembly to heed the voices of Nigerians and prioritize policies that foster economic growth, social equity, and national unity. Failure to do so will only deepen the resentment against the administration and jeopardize the political future of the APC.
The opposition to Tinubu’s tax reform bills reflects a broader discontent with the administration’s policies. Nigerians, particularly those from the Northern region, are tired of policies that prioritize revenue generation over human welfare. The government must act decisively to rebuild trust and ensure that its policies serve the interests of all citizens, not just a privileged few.
The Progressive Amalgamation for Northern Nigeria (PANN) and other concerned groups will continue to champion the voices of the marginalized, holding the government accountable and advocating for policies that uplift the lives of Nigerians.
The proposed tax reform bills are unacceptable, and Nigerians will not stand idly by as their rights and livelihoods are threatened.
Hon. Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu, balasalihudawakinkudu@gmail.com, 08060017934.
