Babangida Aliyu Defends Tax Reform Bills, Slams Misinformed Critics

A former chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Babangida Aliyu, has taken a swipe at Nigerians criticizing the tax reform bills, saying they have not taken the time to study the proposals. This comes as the Nigerian Senate recently passed the four tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu for a second reading.

According to Aliyu, those opposing the bills are misinformed and have not made an effort to understand the content of the proposals. He emphasized that the bills aim to simplify and streamline tax administration, reduce the burden on low-income earners, and eliminate double taxation.

Babangida Aliyu Defends Tax Reform Bills

The tax reform bills, which include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, have been a subject of controversy among Nigerians. While some have expressed concerns over the revenue sharing formula, others have argued that the bills will increase the tax burden on citizens.

However, Aliyu’s comments suggest that the critics have not taken the time to study the bills and understand their implications. He urged Nigerians to take a closer look at the proposals and engage in constructive discussions rather than spreading misinformation.

The Senate’s decision to pass the bills for a second reading has been seen as a significant step towards reforming Nigeria’s tax administration. The bills propose a revenue sharing formula that will allow state governments to share 55% of Value Added Tax (VAT), while the federal government will take 10%.

Senate Leader Bamidele Opeyemi, who led the debate on the bills, explained that the proposals aim to simplify tax administration, reduce the burden on low-income earners, and eliminate double taxation. He assured that the bills will undergo thorough scrutiny and public hearings to ensure that they meet the needs of Nigerians.

While some senators, such as Ali Ndume, have expressed concerns over the timing and content of the bills, others, like Sani Musa, have supported the proposals, arguing that they will benefit the country in the long run.

As the debate over the tax reform bills continues, it remains to be seen how the proposals will be received by Nigerians. However, one thing is clear: the bills have the potential to significantly impact the country’s tax administration and revenue generation. Whether or not they will achieve their intended goals remains to be seen.

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