Northern lawmaker backs tax reform bill

A member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abdulmumin Jibrin, has thrown his weight behind the proposed tax reform bill, arguing that it is in the national interest.

Jibrin who represents the Kiru/Bebeji Federal constituency of Kano State on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), called on critical stakeholders in the polity to approach the bill with patience and open-mindedness.

The former Chairman of the House Committee on Finance who spoke while featuring on the Sunday Political programme of Channel Television called on those opposed to the proposed tax reform from the North to rethink the issue.

The lawmaker argued that the bill includes protective measures designed to prevent any negative impact on Northern states adding that politics should not cloud the laudable objective of the proposed reform.

The lawmaker stressed that the proposed reform presents an opportunity for collective action toward the prosperity of the North and the country.

“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,” he said.

“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.

“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.

“The reform is not just about addressing immediate concerns; it’s about setting a solid foundation for long-term growth. We have to look beyond now and understand that the adjustments being made are necessary for a more sustainable and equitable future. If we approach this with a unified mindset, we can create a tax system that truly benefits all Nigerians, regardless of their region or income.

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“The North has untapped potential, with our land, population, and consumption power. This bill presents a chance to strengthen our economic autonomy. While the process is still in its early stages, I encourage a collaborative approach, assuring Northerners that this reform is intended to benefit all regions, not to undermine any.

“The legislative process will allow for thorough debate and necessary adjustments, ensuring the outcome is a fair, balanced tax policy for everyone.”