Northern elders demand suspension of tax reform bills, urge dialogue

The Northern Elders Forum has reiterated its opposition to the Federal Government’s proposed Tax Reform Bills, demanding their immediate suspension and calling for extensive dialogue with stakeholders.

The forum criticised the Federal Government for failing to engage critical stakeholders and experts before drafting the reforms.

In a press statement released on Saturday and signed by its Management Board Chairman, Al-Amin Daggash, the forum outlined the potential adverse effects of the reforms on Northern Nigeria and the country as a whole.

Daggash stated, “It is necessary to emphasise that Nigerians in general, and Northerners in particular, are not opposed to good and meaningful reforms initiated by authorities at the federal, state, or local government levels.

“However, based on global best practices, successful reforms are anchored on certain key principles of the public policy-making process, which include but are not limited to the following, “Extensive pre-reform engagements with experts and critical stakeholders to secure their buy-in.

“Establishing a well-defined media and communication strategy to clearly articulate the full scope of the reforms and ensure public awareness and enlightenment on a nationwide scale.

“Designing a robust, transparent, and inclusive implementation mechanism.

“Proactively implementing a well-sequenced process to ensure the reforms achieve the desired and anticipated outcomes for society.”

Daggash added, “The Northern Elders Forum asserts that the proposed Tax Reform Bills by the Federal Government breach these key principles of reform and public policy-making, which are globally recognised as best practices.”