The Kebbi State Chapter of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has expressed strong reservations about the proposed tax reform bills currently before the Senate for consideration and possible passage into law.
Co-ordinator of CNG, Kebbi State chapter, Comrade Mansur Isah Guruza made the position of the group known while speaking at a one-day town hall meeting in Birnin Kebbi on the matter.
He emphasized that the bill, if passed, would have far-reaching adverse effects on the Northern region, including Kebbi State.
“The proposed reform’s emphasis on derivation appears to favor states with higher VAT-generating activities, predominantly in the South,” Guruza said. “This shift could significantly reduce the revenue shares allocated to Northern states, where economic activities are comparatively lower.”
Guruza highlighted three key concerns with the proposed bill: the disproportionate impact on Northern states, the potential for increased economic disparity, and the lack of transparency and data-driven decision making.
He urged the government to ensure that any tax reform promotes fairness and equity among all states.
“The CNG Kebbi State Chapter is demanding a transparent and equitable revenue-sharing formula, data-driven policy making, and a consultative approach to the reform,” Guruza added.
He also called for a downward review of the 7.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) to 3% to alleviate the burden on Nigerians.
The town hall meeting was attended by distinguished guests and stakeholders, who engaged in a critical discourse on the implications of the proposed Tax Reform Bills.
The CNG Kebbi State Chapter urged the Nigerian Senate to pause consideration of the bill and engage in further consultations with stakeholders.
Comrade Jamilu A. Charanchi, CNG National Coordinator, delivered a thought-provoking opening remark.
He emphasized the importance of Nigerians expressing their opinions on policies detrimental to their livelihood, particularly the controversial Tax Reform Bills.
“I disagree with the Governors’ Forum’s 7.5% call, instead advocating for a 3% review to ensure citizens’ survival,” Charanchi said.
He also criticized the phasing out of organizations like NITDA, NASENI, and TETFUND, which have positively impacted Nigerian tertiary institutions.
Chairman of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, Kebbi State chapter, Comrade Ibrahim Ngaski aligned with Charanchi’s submissions and promised further consultations and educating citizens on national issues.
“I urge citizens to vote for good and God-fearing leaders into public offices, rather than those prioritizing personal interests,” Ngaski said.
Malam Abdu Muhammad, chairman of the occasion, kicked off the event with some insightful remarks.
He applauded the previous speakers and echoed their call for wider consultations to help citizens to grasp the implications of the tax reform bills.
“I encourage participants to engage respectfully and share their thoughts, assuring everyone that they’ll have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the discussion,” Muhammad said.
A paper was presented by Professor Ahmadu Umar Sanda of the Department of Economics, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, titled “The pains and gains from economic reforms in developing countries: lessons and policy options for Nigeria.”
The paper was delivered at the town hall meeting organized by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) at Shagalinku Hotel, Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday, 28th January 202
