Former Senator Shehu Sani parts ways with Northern governors, voicing strong support for President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill. Read more on his stance and potential impacts on regional politics.
In the face of significant opposition from Northern governors and various stakeholders, former federal legislator Shehu Sani has voiced his support for the contentious Tax Reform Bill. It is noteworthy that on October 28, the Northern governors formally rejected the tax reform bill that had been submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Following the governors’ announcement regarding their stance on the bill, the National Economic Council (NEC), which includes members of the Nigerian Governors Forum, recommended that the President withdraw the contentious legislation.
Nevertheless, President Tinubu, through his media aide Bayo Onanuga, affirmed on Friday that the proposed bill will proceed through the legislative process.
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In response to the ongoing debate, Shehu Sani stated on his X account, “The Tax Reform Bill is not detrimental to the North or any region of this country.” He emphasized that the bill is “economically advantageous and equitable for all regions.”
He urged individuals to set aside biases and examine the bill thoroughly. “It represents a comprehensive and audacious initiative to harmonize and simplify tax administration, enhancing its operations and enforcement. The bill is poised to generate and protect greater revenue for the states.”
Sani further asserted that it would address the corruption associated with the so-called tax waivers granted to business elites. “There is no provision in the document that suggests any region will be disadvantaged, nor does it indicate an increase in taxes or job losses.”
He called on the Northern governors to reconsider their decision to reject the bill, encouraging them to review it carefully and contribute suggestions where appropriate. “The National Assembly must approach this significant bill with the utmost seriousness.”