Shehu Sani backs controversial President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill amid Northern Opposition – Crime Channels

Shehu Sani backs controversial President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill amid Northern Opposition

Despite strong resistance from Northern governors and other key stakeholders, former federal lawmaker Shehu Sani has come out in support of the Tax Reform Bill introduced by the Tinubu administration.

The bill, which aims to overhaul Nigeria’s tax system, has faced significant pushback from Northern governors, who rejected it on October 28, citing concerns that it disproportionately affects the region.

Following their rejection, the National Economic Council (NEC), which includes members of the Nigerian Governors Forum, advised President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the bill.

However, in a statement released through his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu affirmed that the tax reform bill would proceed through the National Assembly, signaling his determination to move forward with the legislation despite the opposition.

In response to the ongoing controversy, Shehu Sani took to X (formerly Twitter) to defend the bill.

“The Tax Reform Bill is not inimical to the North or any part of this country,” Sani wrote, arguing that the proposed changes are economically beneficial and fair to all regions of Nigeria.

Sani’s comments highlight a growing division over the tax reform, with some seeing it as an essential step for economic growth, while others, particularly in the North, view it as an unfair financial burden.

The debate is expected to intensify as the bill progresses through legislative scrutiny.

He said: “People should keep aside sentiments and read the Bill carefully.

“Its a comprehensive and bold move to harmonise and simplify tax administration and streamline its operations and enforcement.The Bill will actually generate and safeguard more revenue to the states.

“It will also combat the corruption in the so-called tax waivers granted to business cabals.

“There is nowhere in the document where any region will be shortchanged or taxes will be increased or jobs will be lost.

“Northern Governors should rescind their decision to reject the Bill,take time to read it and make inputs where necessary.

“NASS must treat this important Bill with all seriousness.”