Resentment over the proposed Tax Reform Bills at the National Assembly has intensified in the North, with northern youths criticizing Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, for his perceived insensitivity to the region’s concerns.
The youths, representing the 19 northern states, described the bills as “anti-North,” arguing that their implementation would further marginalize the region economically. They accused Senator Jibrin, who represents Kano North Senatorial District, of failing to protect the North’s interests during the legislative process.
The Tax Reform Bills—submitted by President Bola Tinubu—aim to overhaul Nigeria’s tax system. The executive arm has stated that the proposed laws are designed to ensure uniform tax revenue administration, eliminate double taxation, encourage private sector investment, and provide targeted tax exemptions to boost disposable incomes. The four bills include:
1. Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 – SB.583
2. Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024 – SB.584
3. Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024 – SB.585
4. Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 – SB.586
Despite assurances of their benefits, opposition to the bills has grown within the North. Many northern lawmakers have expressed concerns, with the Northern Youth Assembly being the latest group to voice its objections.
The youths condemned Senator Jibrin for presiding over the Senate session during which the bills passed their second reading, despite not being listed for the day’s business. They accused him of prioritizing central government interests over those of the North, stating:
*”Your unwavering enthusiasm to champion the bill exposes a misguided commitment to serve an anti-Northern agenda. The proposed tax reform threatens to exacerbate the burdens of businesses and families in Northern Nigeria, already struggling due to poor electricity supply, rampant insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure.”*
The plenary was marked by disruptions and heated debates, with many northern leaders considering the bills detrimental to the region’s socio-economic development.
The Northern Youth Assembly reminded Senator Jibrin of his obligation to represent and address the challenges facing the North, urging him to refocus his legislative efforts on alleviating the pressing issues plaguing the region.
