The debate surrounding the proposed Tax Reform Bills intensified on Thursday as Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed expressed strong opposition, calling the reforms unfair to Northern Nigeria. In contrast, former presidential spokesman Doyin Okupe and Afenifere chieftain Ayo Opadokun defended the proposals as necessary for economic progress and fiscal fairness.
Governor Mohammed criticized the tax reform bills—comprising the Nigeria Tax Bill, Tax Administration Bill, Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill—arguing that they disproportionately disadvantage the North. Speaking to the Christian community in Bauchi, he labeled the reforms a potential threat to national unity.
“These tax reforms are not only anti-North but also a threat to the unity of our country. If you ignore the cries of the people, you are inviting anarchy,” Mohammed warned. He urged the Federal Government to reconsider its approach, emphasizing the need for policies that reflect the interests of all Nigerians.
However, Okupe dismissed the governor’s concerns, describing the reforms as pivotal for addressing corruption and protecting the poor. He argued that the bills exempt low-income earners and small businesses while targeting wealthier individuals and corporations.
“Any right-thinking human being who understands these reforms and opposes them is an enemy of the country,” Okupe stated. “The majority of poor people will not pay tax, and companies will only be taxed based on their revenue and profit, not turnover.”
Opadokun, a former NADECO secretary, echoed Okupe’s sentiments, commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for advancing fiscal federalism through the reforms. Speaking at an event in Offa, Kwara State, Opadokun described opposition to the bills as baseless.
“The President is taking a bold step towards fiscal federalism, and this deserves commendation. These reforms are designed to address historical inefficiencies and foster economic equity,” he said.
Both Okupe and Opadokun emphasized the need for Nigeria to increase its tax-to-GDP ratio, one of the lowest in the world, as a means to generate revenue for development. They called on the Federal Government to ensure transparency in revenue generation and implement measures to curb corruption.
Governor Mohammed, meanwhile, maintained that leadership must prioritize the welfare of the masses and adapt policies to ensure fairness. He urged the Federal Government to revisit the tax reforms and engage stakeholders across all regions.
The proposed tax reforms have sparked widespread debate, with proponents highlighting their potential to boost state revenues and critics warning of regional disparities. The bills are currently under consideration in the National Assembly.
