President Bola Tinubu has ramped up efforts to win the support of northern elites as resistance mounts against his administration’s proposed tax reform bills.
As reported by Politics Nigeria, sources within the Presidency disclosed to PUNCH that Tinubu is engaging in personal consultations and back-channel negotiations to address concerns raised by northern leaders and secure their backing for the reforms.
The contentious bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 and the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, aim to overhaul the nation’s tax system.
However, they have faced stiff opposition, particularly from the Northern Governors Forum, which has criticized the proposed shift to a derivation-based Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution model.
The governors argue that this change would put the region at an economic disadvantage.
In a December media chat, President Tinubu defended the reforms, describing them as vital for Nigeria’s economic growth.
“Tax reform is here to stay. We cannot retool this economy with old, broken tools,” Tinubu said, urging Nigerians to support the changes for the nation’s long-term benefit.
Despite his assurances, northern governors remain resolute in their opposition. Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has called the proposals “anti-northern” and cautioned against their potential regional consequences.
Similarly, Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam criticized the reforms, describing them as “ill-timed and detrimental to Nigeria’s unity.”
The northern leaders are now demanding the withdrawal of the bills to allow for further consultation and review. Tinubu’s outreach efforts aim to bridge the divide and ensure that the reforms gain acceptance while maintaining national unity.
