NewStats: 3,262,159 , 8,176,269 topics. Date: Sunday, 01 June 2025 at 03:06 AM 6i30k

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s plan to reform Nigeria’s tax laws got a boost yesterday, with Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio- cultural organisation from the South-east ing the South-west, South-south and North-central parts of Nigeria to the landmark bills expected to significantly alter the existing fiscal framework.

Wading into the debate on the much-talked-about proposed legislations, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a statement issued by the Secretary General of the body, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted that the bills represent a transformative opportunity for the rejuvenation of Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the enhancement of the fortunes of Nigerian workers.

But the controversy over the four tax bills continued yesterday, with former Vice President Atiku Abubukar, however urging federal lawmakers to prioritise equity and inclusivity in deliberations on the proposed legislations.
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections emphasised that Nigerians are currently united in their demand for reforms that do not exacerbate the nation’s uneven development.

THISDAY learnt that federal lawmakers from the South-west, South-south and North-central were already in on the need to alter the current framework to serve the generality of Nigerians.
The bills have recently received mixed reactions from of the public, as the gulf between the proponents and those opposed to the bills, especially the part dealing with the derivation formula in Value Added Tax (VAT) has widened.
Among key figures that have publicly spoken on the issue are the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibril, who opined that those criticising the tax bills had not even read them.

However, the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, who had earlier raised the alarm that the tax bills will further pauperise the northern states, speaking during an interview on a national television yesterday, doubled down on his opposition to the proposed legislations.

In backing the federal government’s move, the Isiguzoro-led Ohanaeze Ndigbo added that by eliminating the scourge of double taxation imposed by state governors, the reforms would pave the way for an equitable business climate that significantly elevates both local and foreign investment potential.

“In an emphatic affirmation of progress and economic empowerment, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the esteemed apex socio-cultural organisation representing the Igbo nation, hereby announces its steadfast endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reforms bills.

“This endorsement comes after rigorous reviews, exhaustive consultations with an array of stakeholders, and an in-depth analysis of the bills’ implications for the Nigerian economic landscape.

“Our comprehensive evaluation has led us to the resolute conclusion that these tax reforms are not merely legislative proposals; they represent a transformative opportunity for the rejuvenation of SMEs and the enhancement of the fortunes of Nigerian workers.

“By eliminating the scourge of double taxation imposed by unscrupulous state governors, these reforms will pave the way for an equitable business climate that significantly elevates both local and foreign investment potential.

“The Igbo people, renowned for our entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to economic self-determination, stand to gain immensely from these reforms,” Isiguzoro argued.

According to him, the proposed measures are expected to safeguard the private sector, particularly benefiting the ‘industrious Igbos’, who he said play a pivotal role in driving the Nigerian economy through vibrant SME activities.
The apex Igbo body further called on southern lawmakers in the National Assembly to unify their efforts in of what it described as Tinubu’s transformative restructuring programme within Nigeria’s economic and fiscal sectors.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasised: “It is disheartening to observe the substantial opposition that has emerged from certain factions within Northern Nigeria regarding these critical reforms.

“There is palpable concern that Northern governors are mobilising their forces to stifle the progression of the tax reforms bills within the National Assembly, relying on their numerical predominance to assert undue influence.

“This orchestrated opposition appears driven by a desire to perpetuate the current VAT derivation principles that unjustly favour select interests at the expense of equitable national growth.

“The implications of such manoeuvres are profound. If the Northern political elites succeed in thwarting President Tinubu’s initiatives, it could set a dangerous precedent, fostering a climate of resistance against meaningful reform.
“This scenario poses a tangible threat not only to the president’s agenda but also to the broader economic aspirations of millions of Nigerians who yearn for a reformed and equitable system.”

The body further urged all stakeholders, including lawmakers, business actors, and citizens to unite in of these pivotal tax reforms bills.
“It is imperative that our Southern Senators and House Of Representatives close ranks, transcending partisan divides, to ensure that the Tax Reforms Bills navigate both chambers of the National Assembly successfully.

“We wish to reiterate our unwavering commitment to show solidarity with President Tinubu, as we expect that the Southeast Federal Lawmakers will provide essential backing to these initiatives.

“This collective is particularly noteworthy as it underscores our strategic alignment with the President following our decision to abstain from nationwide protests in August 2024, a decision made in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation,” it stated.

On the opposition from some leaders in the northern region against the proposed tax reforms, Ohanaeze submitted that the northerners are only trying to frustrate the bill because the status quo favours their selfish interest at the expense of national growth.
It urged all stakeholders to the proposals as it promises sustainable economic growth towards a prosperous Nigeria.

“Nonetheless, it is disheartening to observe the substantial opposition that has emerged from certain quarters within Northern Nigeria regarding these critical reforms.

“There is palpable concern that Northern governors are mobilizing their forces to stifle the progression of the Tax Reforms Bills within the National Assembly, relying on their numerical predominance to assert undue influence.
“This orchestrated opposition appears driven by a desire to perpetuate the current VAT derivation principles that unjustly favor select interests at the expense of equitable national growth.

“The implications of such maneuvers are profound. If the Northern political elites succeed in thwarting President Tinubu’s initiatives, it could set a dangerous precedent, fostering a climate of resistance against meaningful reform. This scenario poses a tangible threat not only to the President’s agenda but also to the broader economic aspirations of millions of Nigerians who yearn for a reformed and equitable system.

“Moreover, it cannot be overlooked that a successful age of the Tax Reforms Bills could have far-reaching consequences for President Tinubu’s istration, potentially inciting a politically motivated backlash in the 2027 electoral landscape. It is essential that we, as a nation, confront these challenges decisively, fostering a collaborative spirit to advance our collective interests rather than allowing parochial motivations to derail our progress.

“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo urges all stakeholders, including lawmakers, business actors, and citizens, to unite in of these pivotal Tax Reforms Bills.

“The promise of a prosperous and just Nigeria is within our reach, but it demands our collective resolve to advocate for transparency, equity, and sustainable economic growth.

“Together, let us champion an agenda that uplifts all Nigerians and ensures that our legislative processes reflect the aspirations of a nation committed to progress and integrity,” the statement concluded.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/12/02/ohanaeze-s-south-west-south-south-north-central-in-backing-tinubus-tax-bills/

When a man's way pleases the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.


After God, na Tinubu 💪 God bless Nigeria

I regret 1 thing

Boost lol

More like a laugh…


Ohaneze lol

Even APC is embarrassed lol

The bill shows promise

BELIEVE ALL THIS NIGERIA NEWS AT YOUR OWN PERIL.

You mean APC one man faction of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo?

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Tax reform is likely to bring additional challenges. Perhaps I need to learn more about it. How can the North generate revenue when it relies primarily on agricultural produce, which is not subject to VAT? Additionally, the presence of Boko Haram and banditry hinders industrialization in the region....

So finally finally Tinubu don make Obidients fall in line...........chai......never believe this day will come so fast.

P

Lol Nigeria sha

paramakina202:
You mean APC one man faction of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo?

Nope, the actual Ohaneze and Igbo leaders.

Think about it, most Igbo leaders I know have not yet antagonized the bill. Same as SW, SS, & NC.

Infact, Dogara was all out in of the reform today in that Channels townhall.

The thing here is that, the Northern leaders are also divided in this. Some are pro and some are anti.

Even if it's only this Tax Reform Tinubu achieved in his tenure, we write his name in gold in the history of Nigeria.

Better... We cannot continue to do the same thing over and over again and expect different results.

El Rufai foresaw this and initiated the idea of having a dry port in the north. I think the project was commissioned (not sure).

The dry port was designed to allow for import and export to and from the northern part of Nigeria to through Libya and then the Atlantic Ocean. It is a bright idea, but many of today's leaders from the north are just so focused on getting free money from the center.

It is high time the northern leaders put heads together to eliminate terrorism, religious extremism, high illiteracy and look inward.

They have vast arable lands that the Middle Belt, South East and South West cannot boast of.

They are part of Africa's solar belt.

Refilling the Chad River will seriously boost agriculture (fish and crop farming) in the north.

They should look for ways to expunge religious extremism and woo investors. They already have the population that will serve as affordable labour for companies and factories.

Nobody should look at what others have in their respective domains.

What are they even afraid of?

Plrse

Northern Nigeria is doomed.

Once you pull the North Central or Middle Belt away, the core north becomes powerless.

Well, the dude who studied agricultural engineering and soil gymnastics should debate the tax experts.

emkz:

Taiwo Oyedele was partner at PWC and Africa Tax Leader before he was made Chairman of Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms. Zach Adedeji graduated first class from OAU and rose to corporate finance manager in a multinational.

I have only one request: those opposing the tax bill need to come out and debate them.

If they have the balls.

But why are sum people so stupid saying its a lie,
The igbos have nothing to loose, they have potentials
Most igbo businesses succeeded with tiny to no ,
This benefits the igbos more

Zulum and Atiku can now see that 4 region out of 6 are ing the bill So they should look for another excuse

PressMyButton:
When a man's ways pleases the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.


After God, na Tinubu 💪 God bless Nigeria

Tinubu should give us state police.

That will be very beneficial especially to the Middle belt. It will also benefit SW, SS, SE, and even the core North.

National policing system don fail us. Each state having their police will be better and their orientation and philosophy will be totally different compared to the current one.

Last thing wey go happen, they won't re-elect him. But he will go down as the president that campaigned on restructuring and actually fulfilled most of the item and stayed true to the cause.

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When a man's ways pleases the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.


After God, na Tinubu 💪 God bless Nigeria

I am more concerned about how some governors and senators are against this tax reform bill

These people did not fight dirty this way when subsidy was removed because subsidy only affects the poor. This tax reform bill must be ed I am happy the way they are complaining it means that the bill is good for the poor Nigerians but very bad for the rich ones

Okechukwu Isiguzoro is not a real ohaneze. Ohaneze means means in Igbo “ group of people/everybody” but his group is a one man show. Okechukwu is one of the founding of APC in SE and had been desperately seeking federal appointment since time of buhari without success . Real ohaneze doesn’t recognize him because he is like a persona non grata desperately chasing money like reno omokry . Nothing concerns an average Igbo with tinubu’s illegitimate government and that had been the position of Igbos since day one and was made known to Bianca too before her current misadventure

Interesting!

Nice of them

VillageOracle00:
I regret 1 thing

which is?

No more free money for unproductive states

One of the most controversial issues in this Tax Reform Bill is that 60% of VAT will be given to the state it was collected from, It seems by this it will only favour mostly Lagos and Rivers State to the detriment of the Northern states who are collecting more VAT based on population.

Here is my concern, Lagos state was deliberately made the commercial headquaters of the Nation to the detriment of other states the more reason it collects more taxes.

Practically, All the cars entering the country pays their tax to only Lagos state. Even the cars to be used in Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Cross River states. Now this is not fair to these states as they have their own seaports but cars are not entering them, the taxes they are supposed to get as a state goes to Lagos state.

Also, Telecom companies pay their VAT in Lagos because their headquaters are located in Lagos, If this new bill is ed, that is no longer fair to all other states where the Telcom companies operate. Telcom companies should now start paying VAT to each state they operate as you can no longer rob Peter to pay Paul.

Oil companies have their headquaters located in Lagos while they operate in different states especially in the Niger Delta. This will no longer be fair if the bill is ed becaused those states where the oil companies operate will start demanding that the oil companies pay thier VAT in those states they operate.

The truth is this bill if ed, is seriously going to open litany of issues which I dont think at the moment the bill captured or resolved it.

Another dangerous dimension, this may prompt the oil producing states to start demanding for 60% of the oil revenues from their respective states, once this happens, chaos will reign supreme in the country.

Audio...Lamba...iro nla

PARASITISM BY THE NORTH IS PART OF WHAT HAS KEPT NIGERIA UNDEVELOPED AND ENGENDERED BACKWARDS FOR 70 YRS
IT IS EXACTLY WHAT IBOS HAS ALWAYS STOOD AGAINST
I TOLD YOU THE TRUTH WE IBOS STOOD FOR MUST HAVE ITS WAY IF WE EVER WANT TO ADVANCE
THE SCALE IS GETTING OFF THEIR EYES

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