By MUHAMMED DANBABA
Abuja, Nigeria – Despite rising opposition, especially from Northern Nigeria and recent recommendations by the National Executive Council (NEC) to withdraw President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, National Assembly member Abdulmumin Jibrin has expressed unwavering confidence in their eventual passage.
The proposed tax reforms have been met with pushback from various stakeholders, including Borno South Senator Ali Ndume, who labeled the bills as “dead on arrival.” However, Jibrin, who represents the Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency of Kano State in the House of Representatives, defended the initiative, arguing it reflects essential national objectives.
“No Unified Northern Opposition” to the Bill – Jibrin
Speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, Jibrin clarified that opposition to the bills is not universal across the North. He expressed his commitment to the legislation, emphasizing its potential benefits for the country.
“It is not a consensus in the North that this bill should be shut down,” Jibrin stated. “I can confidently tell you that the bill will go through the processes in the National Assembly and it will be passed.”
Reforms to Undergo Full Legislative Scrutiny
President Tinubu, addressing the controversy through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stressed that the reform bills will continue through legislative scrutiny rather than being withdrawn. Tinubu encouraged the National Assembly to carry out thorough evaluations, welcoming constructive consultations to address any regional or stakeholder concerns.
Ensuring National Progress
Jibrin believes that once enacted, the reforms will prove neither harmful to national interests nor disadvantageous to the North. He argued that several provisions in the bills align with long-standing national priorities aimed at economic development and progress.
“The clauses in the tax reform bills are aligned with our objectives for national progress,” Jibrin affirmed, expressing hope that Nigerians will recognize their value once they are enacted.
The controversial reforms remain under close watch as the National Assembly deliberates on their potential impact. Meanwhile, both Tinubu’s administration and supporting lawmakers are calling for continued dialogue and transparency in the legislative process.
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