Former Kano State Governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, has clarified that Northern leaders support aspects of President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills but are advocating for wider public consultation before implementation.
Speaking on ARISE NEWS, Shekarau, who chairs the League of Northern Democrats, emphasized that their technical committee has analyzed the four proposed bills and supports several components. “We are not rejecting the entirety of the bill,” he stated, explaining that their committee of economic and financial experts has endorsed some proposals while suggesting modifications to others.
The group specifically raised concerns about the proposed leadership structure of revenue services. Shekarau explained they recommend separating the Board Chairman and Chief Executive roles to ensure better accountability and transparency.
The League has already prepared detailed feedback for key stakeholders, including the President, Vice President, and both chambers of the National Assembly. They have also engaged with Taiwo Oyedele, who chairs the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.
A primary concern highlighted by Shekarau is the limited public consultation in the reform process. “If governors will be complaining, then that means that there wasn’t enough consultation,” he noted, advocating for broader discussions with constituents before proceeding with public hearings.
Regarding separate allegations from Niger about Nigeria’s alleged collaboration with France, Shekarau called for diplomatic handling of the situation. He recommended establishing a high-level contact team for private discussions with Niger’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good relations with neighboring countries for regional security.
“We cannot afford to have an open disagreement with our neighbors as close as Niger, especially when it comes to the issue of security,” Shekarau concluded, stressing the need for diplomatic dialogue over public denials.
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