Utweets
The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) has sopposed the proposed Tax Reform Bill, describing it as a policy “conceived in bad faith” and a potential threat to Nigeria’s national unity. This stance was outlined in a communiqué issued on Saturday following the second bi-annual meeting of the forum’s Board of Trustees in Abuja. ...READ THE FULL STORY FROM SOURCE ...READ THE FULL STORY FROM SOURCE
NEF Convener, Professor Ango Abdullahi, criticized the bill’s formulation and alleged that key stakeholders, including members of the National Economic Council (NEC), were excluded from the consultation process.
The forum warned that the bill could marginalize the North’s economic potential and exacerbate existing disparities.
The forum expressed concern over the “brazen and suspicious” approach used to impose the bill, claiming that it sidelined critical stakeholders.
“The meeting seriously maintained that, in its present form, the Tax Reform Bill is conceived in bad faith, poorly packaged, and is a palpable threat to our unity and national cohesion,” the communiqué read.
The NEF accused Northern politicians in the National Assembly of being silent on the issue, warning that “the days of conspiratorial connivance against the region’s interests are over.”
The forum commended the Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Nigeria Council of Traditional Rulers for opposing the bill, describing their actions as “patriotic.” It urged lawmakers from the region to resist any policy that undermines the North’s strategic interests.
The NEF urged Northerners to remain vigilant in protecting their rights, especially during elections. It also cautioned against manipulation by leaders with questionable motives.
“The Board-in-session fiercely warned against dubious policies and reminded Northerners of their responsibility to defend the region’s rights and ensure equitable treatment within the federation,” the statement concluded....READ THE FULL STORY FROM SOURCE …READ THE FULL STORY FROM SOURCE
