Executive Director of Patriots for Advancement of Peace and Social Development, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi has criticised some state governors for their resistance to the proposed tax reform bills, describing them as “lazy” and unwilling to develop strategies to generate internal revenue.
“Because of how the monies are going to be shared based on your performance, based on your contribution, that is why they are complaining. Most of these states are lazy, most of them are not ready to develop the state to generate the revenue, that is why they are complaining.” He said.
Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, Shinkafi strongly defended the contentious tax reform bills amidst criticisms, particularly from northern governors. He described the opposition as politically motivated and based on misinformation.
“The attack by the Northern Youth Assembly is uncalled for,” Shinkafi said. He explained that the Deputy Senate President, who presided over the proceedings, was fulfilling his constitutional duties.
“All the attacks, blackmail, [and] mischief-making are politically motivated against the Deputy Senate President,” he added.
Shinkafi noted that many northern governors and critics have not adequately studied the bills.
“If they have gone deeply into it, the governors will not be crying foul… These governors are responsible for the economic failure, insecurity, chronic unemployment, acute poverty, and educational backwardness in the northern region,” he argued.
He outlined several merits of the tax reform, highlighting provisions beneficial to small businesses and critical sectors.
“Small businesses with turnover not exceeding ₦50 million are exempted from paying annual taxes. Pharmaceutical products, food items, educational materials, agricultural equipment, and export goods are also exempted from VAT,” Shinkafi stated.
Furthermore, he emphasised the reduction of income tax for small businesses from 30% to 25% as a significant advantage.
On allegations that the reforms are anti-north, Shinkafi dismissed such claims. He clarified that the new revenue-sharing formula prioritises performance-based allocation.
Addressing accusations against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shinkafi refuted claims of bias towards southern states, particularly Lagos, or personal interests linked to the Alpha Beta Consulting firm. He attributed such narratives to misinformation.
“People are being misinformed on the new tax bill against the presidency… The most important thing is for you to be upright in your decision and very transparent and accountable,” he said.
Shinkafi called for public scrutiny of the bills to dispel controversies and enhance understanding.
“The issue of attribution and derivation is clear. With public hearings, all these would have been avoidable,” he noted.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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