The senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has criticized the tax reform bills recently sent to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu, stating that they are “dead on arrival” and should be immediately withdrawn.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on Tuesday, Ndume urged the President to heed the advice of the National Economic Council and the Northern Governors’ Forum, both of which have raised concerns about the proposals.
According to the senator, the government should focus on alleviating the tax burden on Nigerians rather than increasing it during these challenging times.
Ndume emphasized that the current economic hardship in the country makes it difficult for Nigerians to afford additional taxes.
He explained that while Nigerians are generally willing to pay taxes, they can only do so when they are financially able, noting that many people are currently struggling to make ends meet.
The senator further argued that the focus should be on reforming the government itself rather than increasing the financial burden on citizens.
The proposed tax reform bills have faced widespread criticism, including from the 36 state governors, who have called on the President to withdraw the legislation.
However, President Tinubu has remained firm in his stance, stating that while the bills will not be withdrawn, lawmakers will have the opportunity to make necessary adjustments and amendments.
“If it goes on like that, I can tell you that it will be dead on arrival. We don’t need to study the bills. Let people live first before you start asking for taxes.
“The general thing is that Nigerians are not willing to talk about or pay any tax now considering the (economic) situation we are in now.
“Nigerians are willing to pay taxes but they can only pay taxes when they can afford it. Right now, people are struggling to survive. Let people live first before you start asking them for taxes,” he added.
