Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has clarified that state governors are not opposing the recently introduced Tax Reform Bills but are seeking further explanations on certain aspects. The governor shared this during a Channels Television Townhall on Monday, focusing on the proposed tax changes.
Governor Sule emphasized that the governors recognize the importance of the Tax Reform Bills but expressed concerns about certain provisions. He highlighted the example of increasing Value Added Tax (VAT) from 20% to 60% at the point of generation, noting that the approach has now been adjusted to include consumption as well. “The governors said, why don’t you withdraw the bills, let us discuss it, let us understand it,” he stated.
The Nasarawa governor pointed out that the Townhall meeting should have occurred earlier to provide room for dialogue before the bills reached the National Assembly. According to him, such engagement could have minimized the need for governors to request the withdrawal of the bills.
In response, Taiwo Oyedele, chair of the tax reform committee, expressed appreciation for the feedback. He explained that engaging governors earlier might have delayed the legislative process, though the committee had attempted to inform Nigerians beforehand. Oyedele added that the committee is now willing to revisit consultations to address the public’s growing interest.
The Tax Reform Bills have sparked debates across the nation, particularly in Northern states. Amid the controversies, the National Economic Council recommended withdrawing the bills for further consultation. However, President Bola Tinubu declined, insisting that the legislative process continue.
