Clark to Northern Governors: End Power Arrogance, Support Tax Reforms

Elder statesman Edwin Clark urges Northern Governors to embrace Tinubu’s tax reforms, advocating equity and national development.

Chief Edwin Clark, an elder statesman, criticized the opposition from the 19 northern governors regarding President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills.

“As far as I’m concerned, that tax bill needs to proceed,” said the nonagenarian during the Sunday edition of Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a socio-political program broadcast on Channels Television.

The Tinubu administration’s new tax bills have become a focal point of controversy, facing sharp criticism and strong opposition from various quarters, including the 36 state governors represented by the National Economic Council (NEC).

The 19 governors from northern Nigeria have firmly opposed certain sections of the bills and demanded their withdrawal from the National Assembly.

Clark, the head of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), criticized the position taken by northern groups.

“I was stunned to find out that the 19 governors of the north have convened once again. If all 36 of you already met, why do it again? Many northern governors don’t seem to grasp their actions clearly. This duplicity and arrogance in wielding power must come to an end,” he stated.

The PANDEF leader stated that the President requires wisdom to lead Nigeria effectively, noting that some individuals are attempting to manage the country as if it were their personal domain. The leader emphasized that when resources are distributed, it’s crucial to question where the funds originate from and highlighted the importance of paying taxes.

Clark also voiced his dissatisfaction with the NEC’s position on the tax bills, commenting that the governors and Vice President Kashim Shettima are transforming the council into an executive entity.

He expressed surprise when the 36 governors, led by the vice president, discussed recommending that the President hold off on the bill for further consultation. Additionally, he mentioned that although all 19 northern governors convened a meeting, they should reflect on what benefits have come from creating divisions within Nigeria. He noted how there are currently coalitions like Progressive Governors and PDP Governors but remarked these don’t benefit Nigeria as intended.

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The National Economic Council (NEC) is established as a constitutional body by the Nigerian constitution to function as an advisory council chaired by the Vice President, with all governors in attendance. However, today it appears that the governors have transformed this council into an executive body and have become involved in political activities.

“The issue is, whom will they seek advice from? How often have they sought input from the public? They seldom stay in their local areas and are constantly in Abuja, believing they’ll acquire more funds there.”

Clark stated that Nigeria does not belong to the President and urged him to refrain from appointing his allies as ministers.

“I believe the leadership should be inclusive of everyone in this country. However, it seems that nowadays people are chosen based on friendship rather than competence or honesty, and that’s not right.”

“Nigeria isn’t the property of Mr. President; it belongs to all its citizens. Every Nigerian holds equal status, and it’s crucial for us to believe that anyone can reach the highest positions in order for Nigeria to truly thrive and overcome challenges,” he stated.