Northern Youths Slam FG's Tax Reform Bill, Demand Withdrawal

By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna 

A Northern good governance advocacy group, Northern Star Youth Empowerment Initiative, has vehemently rejected the federal government's tax reform bill, citing unfair distribution of VAT revenue that would exacerbate economic hardship in the North. The group, which aims to unite and protect the interests of Northern Nigeria, argues that the bill's current form is detrimental to the region's economic development.

Director General Dr. Abdullahi Idris emphasized that while some aspects of the bill may be beneficial, its unfair provisions would lead to economic adversity for the North. He urged the Tinubu administration to withdraw the bill immediately, expressing disappointment over the lack of sufficient consultations before its presentation to the National Assembly.

The group also warned National Assembly members, particularly those from the North, not to endorse the bill, lest they face the wrath of their constituents. Dr. Idris recalled that the bill was introduced against the advice of many well-meaning Nigerians, including the National Economic Council, due to its potential to benefit some sections of the country at the expense of others.

The Northern Youth Assembly demands that the National Assembly reject the proposed bill, focusing instead on youth-friendly laws that promote sustainable development, job creation, and economic empowerment.