- The Bauchi State Togetherness and Development Forum urged the National Assembly to abandon proposed tax reform bills, citing economic struggles for citizens
- Forum chairman Abdullahi Koli criticized new taxes and increased charges, arguing they burden Nigerians already facing rising living costs and inflation
The Bauchi State Togetherness and Development Forum has urged the National Assembly to abandon the proposed tax reform bills.
The group argues that these reforms could deepen the economic struggles faced by Nigerians, particularly those in Bauchi State.
Speaking at a press conference in Bauchi, the forum’s chairman, Abdullahi Koli, called on senators from the state—Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), Shehu Buba (Bauchi South), and Ismail Dahuwa (Bauchi North)—to resist the bills in the Senate.
Koli expressed the group’s concerns over the harsh economic realities of recent government policies, including the removal of oil subsidies. He noted that these measures have caused inflation, rising living costs, and growing insecurity.
He also criticized the additional financial burdens imposed by new taxes and increased charges, such as higher electricity tariffs and electronic transfer fees.
According to Koli, these changes have left many Nigerians unable to afford basic necessities like food, healthcare, and education.
The chairman dismissed the rationale provided by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, which aims to boost tax revenue and reduce dependence on oil revenue. Instead, he proposed an alternative approach focused on reducing taxes and cutting government expenditures.
Koli recommended curbing unnecessary expenses, such as reducing the presidential fleet, limiting costly official trips, and eliminating other non-essential government activities.
The forum’s stance highlights growing opposition to tax reforms, which critics say could further strain citizens already grappling with economic hardship.