Youths demand Northern governors explain U-turn on tax reforms

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called on the Northern Governors who had initially presented a united front against the proposed tax reforms, citing concerns about their potential negative impact on the already struggling Northern economy, to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their change of heart.

According to a statement signed by Yerima Shettima, President General AYCF, the people deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt shift and whether any concessions were made that would compromise the effectiveness of the tax reforms.

He reiterated AYCF’s unwavering support for the national tax reform bills, reports Daily Independent.

“We believe that these reforms are crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth and development, and we condemn the Northern Governors’ inconsistent and ultimately deceitful actions. Their failure to effectively manage their states and their manipulation of public opinion highlight a systemic problem of governance within the region.

“We call for greater accountability from these governors and urge them to focus on their primary responsibilities: improving the lives of the people they represent through good governance and effective resource management.

He noted that the hasty surrender to the tax reform bills without meaningful engagement or a transparent explanation constitutes a disservice to the North and a betrayal of the public’s trust.

“The AYCF will continue to advocate for policies that promote sustainable development and economic progress for all Nigerians, and will remain vigilant in holding our leaders accountable for their actions.”

According to the statement, “AYCF vehemently condemns the recent volte-face by Northern Governors regarding the national tax reform bills. After generating needless controversy and misleading the public, these governors have inexplicably capitulated to the reforms.”

He stated that AYCF, from the outset, has maintained that these reforms, despite potential short-term challenges, are essential for Nigeria’s overall development.

“We view the governors’ actions as a betrayal of the trust placed in them, a demonstration of their incompetence in managing their states’ affairs, and ultimately, a disservice to the Northern people.

“Their arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Instead of engaging constructively with the government to address specific concerns and negotiate amendments, they chose to employ divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress.

According to him, the approach reveals a lack of foresight and strategic planning, highlighting their failure to effectively represent the interests of their constituents.

“The sudden and unexplained shift in their position, without any apparent concessions or amendments achieved, casts serious doubt on their integrity and raises questions about the motives behind their initial opposition.

“We recognise that effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous nation. While we acknowledge the need for sensitive implementation to minimize hardship, particularly amongst vulnerable populations, we firmly believe that the benefits of these reforms significantly outweigh any potential drawbacks.

Shettima further stated that increased tax revenue will allow the government to invest heavily in critical sectors, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all Nigerians, including those in the North.

“The governors’ initial opposition, therefore, not only hampered national progress but also demonstrated a disregard for the long-term welfare of the very people they are elected to serve. Their actions appear driven by short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the development of the North,” he added.