The House of Representatives has indefinitely suspended its debate on four tax reform bills following strong opposition from northern governors and lawmakers. The suspension, announced in a memo signed by the Clerk of the House, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, was due to the need for broader consultations with stakeholders. Lawmakers from the North-East and Kano State, along with prominent figures like Senator Aminu Tambuwal, voiced concerns over the bills’ potential economic impact on the region.
Key points of contention include the bills’ perceived bias favoring Lagos State, the urgency of their passage, and their implications for Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue sharing. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and other northern leaders argued that the reforms could exacerbate poverty and regional disparities. Conversely, groups like Afenifere and some APC lawmakers support the bills, citing their potential to enhance fiscal policy and economic revival.
The bills, based on recommendations from the Taiwo Oyedele-led Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, include measures to restructure tax administration and revenue sharing. Broader consultations are expected to address growing regional and political divisions over the reforms.
