Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, warning that he may leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) if the policies are implemented. The Senator expressed his concerns during an appearance on Politics Today, a Channels Television program, on Thursday night.
Ndume slammed the four tax bills, which recently passed their second reading in the Senate, arguing that they would worsen the economic hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians. The bills, submitted by President Tinubu in October, include the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and the Nigeria Tax Bill.
“Reforms Will Shift the Burden to Nigerians”
While acknowledging his support for the president, Ndume questioned the rationale behind the reforms, which he believes will place an additional burden on citizens and businesses. “I am close to President Tinubu and want him to succeed,” Ndume said. “But if not, I can leave the party.”
He criticized the proposed VAT exemptions for individuals earning less than ₦800,000 annually, suggesting that they would not provide meaningful relief. “When you say those earning below ₦800,000 annually won’t pay VAT, how does that help them? Are they exempted from paying VAT on the goods they buy in the market?” he asked.
Ndume pointed out that increasing corporate taxes would likely lead businesses to pass on the additional costs to consumers. “For instance, the price of cement is already up, so consumers will pay more. If Dangote is taxed on refined products, that cost will also be transferred to the price per litre. So, are you truly helping those who earn below ₦800,000, or are you worsening their situation?”
Also Read
- Zulum Rejects Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Says They Will Harm the North
- APC Leader Says North Will Support Tinubu Despite Tax Reform Bill
Concerns Over Economic Impact
The Senator argued that the tax reforms contradict President Tinubu’s agenda of alleviating economic hardship. He warned that the bills would not only hurt citizens but also undermine public confidence in the administration. “These reforms could derail the president’s agenda and harm the very people who are already struggling with economic challenges,” Ndume said.
Northern governors and other lawmakers have also raised concerns about the reforms, arguing that they could disproportionately affect certain regions and exacerbate poverty.
Public Hearing Announced
In response to the growing opposition, the Senate announced plans to hold a public hearing on the tax bills in the coming weeks. The hearing will provide an opportunity for stakeholders, including lawmakers, businesses, and citizens, to express their views before a final decision is made.
Ndume urged caution, emphasizing the need to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians over political or economic expediency. “The government must carefully consider the impact of these reforms. We are here to serve the people, not to make their lives harder,” he said.
With public hearings scheduled and opposition mounting, the fate of the controversial tax reform bills remains uncertain.