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BAUCHI, Nigeria — The Bauchi State Togetherness and Development Forum has called on senators to consider withdrawal of the tax reform bill from the national assembly.
Abdullahi Koli, the Chairman of the forum said this during a press conference which held at the conference hall of the National Commission for Museum and Monument, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Tomb, Bauchi.
Koli said the briefing was directed at the senators representing Bauchi State at the national assembly, namely: Abdul Ningi, from the Bauchi Central Senatorial District; Shehu Buba, Bauchi South Senatorial District, and Ismail Dahuwa, representing Bauchi North Senatorial District.
He group appealed for the withdrawal of the tax reform bill from the Red Chamber.
He said, “We, the Bauchi State Togetherness and Development Forum, with a sense of urgency and responsibility, convey the concerns of the good people of Bauchi State over the proposed Tax Reform Bills recently submitted to the National Assembly by the Executive Arm of Government.
“At a time when Nigerians, particularly in Bauchi State, are grappling with unparalleled economic challenges, this proposed legislation threatens to deepen the already dire conditions faced by the majority.
“We appeal to your sense of justice, equity, and representation to carefully reconsider these bills and advocate for policies that align with the needs and aspirations of your constituents,” Koli stated.
The forum expressed worries that “Majority of Nigerians, including the people of Bauchi State, are enduring severe economic hardships stemming largely from the removal of oil subsidies.
“This decision has exacerbated inflation, leaving many families unable to afford basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education.
“Social mobility has been stifled, and the level of insecurity continues to rise, further endangering lives and property.”
Koli argued that though the justification of the bills stated by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, is to maximise tax revenue and reduce dependence on oil revenue.
“However, this approach places an undue burden on an already overtaxed populace and struggling businesses. Many foreign businesses have exited Nigeria, and domestic enterprises are barely surviving.
He said the best approach was to maximize taxes and not exacerbate it.
The forum Chairman also believes that “Reducing dependence on oil by overburdening citizens with taxes is both unsustainable and unfair.
“A more prudent approach would be to curtail unnecessary government expenditures. We are deeply concerned about the expedited manner in which these bills are being pushed through the legislative process."
