ACF urges calm on tax reform debates, sets up expert panel

The Arewa Consultative Forum has urged Nigerians to exercise tolerance regarding dissenting views on the proposed Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration by the Senate.

The Forum also announced the formation of a committee of experts to review the bills and provide recommendations to relevant government bodies.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF expressed concern over the divisive and acrimonious nature of debates surrounding the bills, which it said were creating rifts across different sections of the country.

The Forum criticised the use of inflammatory language in discussions, noting that such rhetoric was unnecessary and counterproductive.

The statement read, “The proposed bills will have far-reaching implications for every citizen and every part of the country.

“Debates over bills are integral to the public policy process in any democracy. Reforms aimed at addressing policy shortcomings must consider all concerns raised by citizens.”

The ACF highlighted a lack of adequate consultations during the drafting of the bills, citing objections raised by critical stakeholders, including the National Economic Council, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Commending the Senate’s decision to pause and conduct broader consultations, the Forum called on stakeholders to collaborate with the relevant Senate Committee to ensure the legislation equitably serves all regions of the country.

“We urge all interest groups to view debates on the bills as essential contributions to the legislative process and not as opportunities for blackmail or intimidation,” the Forum added.

The ACF further emphasised the importance of mutual respect and restraint in discussions, stating, “No one has a monopoly on knowledge or wisdom. We must engage in constructive debates to ensure the legislative process benefits the entire country, not specific interests.”

The proposed Tax Reform Bills, aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s tax system, have sparked nationwide controversy.
While proponents argue the reforms are necessary to boost revenue and promote economic growth, critics warn they could disproportionately harm the poor and marginalised.

The Northern Governors’ Forum has also expressed concerns about the bills, rejecting them on the grounds that they could negatively affect the region’s interests.

At a joint meeting with the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Kaduna, the governors clarified their support for policies that promote national development but called for fairness and equity in implementation to prevent marginalising any geopolitical zone.

“We urge members of the National Assembly to oppose any bill that jeopardises the well-being of our people,” said NGF Chairman and Gombe State Governor, Mohammed Yahaya, while presenting a communique at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House.

As debates on the Tax Reform Bills continue, the ACF’s appeal for tolerance and constructive dialogue underscores the importance of inclusive discussions on policies that impact the entire nation.