Oppositions have continued to mount, especially from the northern part of the country, over the Tax Reform Bills as a Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has said that the bills, if allowed to say through, pose a significant threat to tye region.
The group believes the reforms risk dismantling the economic and social fabric of the region.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, the CNG Coordinator, Mr. Faisal Salisu, described the tax reforms as a significant threat to the North.
He criticized the Tinubu administration for proposing sweeping changes that could disproportionately harm the region, particularly amid existing challenges such as insecurity, economic decline, and border closures.
The reforms, including a new VAT derivation formula and consolidation of multiple levies into a single development levy, are touted as pathways to growth. However, Salisu argued they would primarily benefit states like Lagos and Rivers at the expense of Sokoto and the entire North.
“The VAT sharing formula will overwhelmingly favor Lagos and Rivers, disadvantaging not only Sokoto but also the North, South East, and South-South regions,” Salisu stated.
He further criticized the potential defunding of institutions like TETFUND, NITDA, and NASENI, which he described as critical to education, technology, and industrial development in the North. “Weakening these institutions under the guise of reforms threatens to deepen regional inequality and undermine national unity,” he added.
The group highlighted the severe impacts of insecurity and a fragile economy in the region. Border communities in Sokoto, Katsina, Borno, and Kebbe states have suffered paralyzed commercial activities due to border closures and rampant insecurity.
In Sokoto, local government areas such as Tangaza, Binji, Silame, and Gudu have endured over a decade without electricity, crippling social and economic development. Institutions like the Federal College of Education in Gidan Madi have also been severely affected.
“Reconnecting these areas to the national grid is crucial to fostering growth, improving education, and enhancing the quality of life for residents,” Salisu emphasized.
The coalition also lamented the devastating impact of banditry and communal violence on previously thriving agricultural and trade hubs like Isa, Sabon Birni, Goronyo, and Rabah. “Many communities are desolate, with economic activities crippled and people displaced or impoverished,” Salisu said.
The CNG called for the immediate withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bill currently before the National Assembly. They also demanded the government publish data justifying the proposed VAT derivation formula for public scrutiny.
Immediate revitalization of the power sector and reconnection of Silame, Binji, Tangaza, and other affected LGAs in Sokoto to the national grid.
Establishment of additional power stations and substations to stabilize electricity supply and promote regional development.
The coalition urged Northern stakeholders, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and religious figures to unite in defense of the region’s future.
“We also call on our brothers and sisters in the South East, South-South, and parts of the South West who share these struggles to join us in advocating for a just, fair, and equitable Nigeria,” Salisu concluded.
