Former Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon Abdulmumin Jibrin, has cautioned against strident criticisms and agitation against the proposed Tax Reforms Bills by politicians and leaders from the Northern part of the country.
The lawmaker declaration was on the heels of opposition from the Northern Governors Forum and the Arewa Consultative Forum on the Bills before both Chambers of the National Assembly for passage.
The four Executive Bills include, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.
Speaking on a live television monitored programme on Monday, Honourable Jibrin maintained that the Bills would serve the interest of all Nigerians.
The lawmaker accused those casting assertions on the motive of President Bola Tinubu, as speaking out of ignorance as he submitted that most of them have not made efforts to pick the Bills and read through the contents.
He said: “There’s a crisis of perception here. People hear ‘tax reform’ and immediately assume it will negatively impact them, without ever taking the time actually to review the details of the bill. Many of the critics haven’t even looked at the bill closely.
“President Tinubu is seen as a tax and revenue-focused person, and because of that, when you hear discussions about the bill, people jump to conclusions. I urge everyone, including lawmakers, the media, and the public, to engage with the actual content of the bill before making judgements.
“It’s easy to assume, but if you look at the bill, you’ll see that it’s not about imposing new taxes on the common man. Instead, it addresses systemic issues and proposes reforms that benefit the broader society.
“The bills entail protective measures, or “buffers,” designed to prevent any negative impact on Northern states.
“These buffers are important in safeguarding the interests of the Northern region. They ensure that, even as the tax system is reformed, the North will not face any adverse consequences.
“It’s important for us to understand that these measures are specifically aimed at protecting our region while we engage in this necessary reform.”
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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