Arewa Youths Criticize Northern Governors Over Tax Reform Debate

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) on Friday strongly criticized northern governors for their initial opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, describing their stance as a “disservice” to the region and the nation at large.

In October, Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly: the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Tax Administration Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. However, the northern governors collectively opposed the proposed legislation, citing concerns about its potential impact on the region’s fragile economy.

By Thursday, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), which includes northern governors, announced its support for the reforms but proposed that there should be no increase in value-added tax (VAT).

Responding to this shift, Yerima Shettima, national president of AYCF, issued a scathing statement on Friday, accusing the governors of creating unnecessary controversy and failing to serve their constituents effectively.

“After generating needless controversy and misleading the public, these governors have inexplicably capitulated to the reforms,” Shettima said.

He argued that the governors’ initial opposition lacked substance and foresight, describing their approach as counterproductive to the development of the north.

“Their arguments failed to recognize the critical role of robust taxation in funding essential public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” Shettima said. “Instead of engaging constructively with the federal government to negotiate amendments, they resorted to divisive rhetoric that fueled public unrest and stalled national progress.”

Shettima highlighted the importance of effective taxation as the foundation of a prosperous nation. He emphasized that the proposed reforms could unlock significant benefits for all Nigerians, including those in the north, through improved infrastructure, job creation, and enhanced public services.

“We firmly believe that the benefits of these reforms significantly outweigh any potential drawbacks,” he said. “Increased tax revenue will empower the government to invest in critical sectors, improving the overall quality of life for all citizens.”

The AYCF president also accused the northern governors of prioritizing political expediency over genuine development. “Their actions appear driven by short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the progress of the north,” he said.