The Igbo Youths Progressive Forum (IYPF) has strongly opposed the proposed tax reform bill introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing it as anti-people, unjust, and a clear attack on equity and fairness in Nigeria.

According to the IYPF, the bill favors only a few industrialized states, leaving others, particularly the South East, which has fewer industries and is already marginalised in federal allocations and development projects, to suffer disproportionately.

In statement signed by Comrade Victor Onuoha Ukeh, National President of IYPF, the forum argued that the bill disregards the principle of fairness by imposing excessive taxes on individuals and businesses without addressing the glaring inequality in the economic structure of the country.

This, they believe, will worsen the economic divide and jeopardise the survival of small and medium enterprises, which are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.

Furthermore, the IYPF expressed alarm over the proposal to transfer the funding of TETFund (Tertiary Education Trust Fund) to the national budget, describing it as a “death sentence” for the agency that has been instrumental in improving tertiary education in Nigeria.

The forum called on the National Assembly to reject the bill in its entirety and protect the interests of all Nigerians, particularly those from less industrialised regions like the South East.

They demanded a fair, inclusive, and just approach to governance that promotes unity and national development.

“The proposed tax reform bill is not only anti-people but also a threat to the future of this nation. By placing heavier burdens on ordinary Nigerians while favoring a few wealthy states, it undermines the principles of equity and fairness. We call on the National Assembly to reject this bill in its entirety and protect the interests of all Nigerians, particularly those from less industrialised regions like the South East.

“The Igbo Youths Progressive Forum will not stand by while policies that harm our people and the future of our youth are forced upon us.

“An attack on education and economic equity is an attack on the nation’s future, and we will continue to resist such actions with all our strength.”