Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has clarified that governors are not opposed to the Tax Reform Bills, but rather seek clarification on certain aspects. Speaking at a Townhall meeting organized by Channels Television, Governor Sule commended the bills, but emphasized the need for further discussion and understanding.
One of the contentious issues raised by the governors was the proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 20% to 60% at the point of generation. However, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Tax Reform Committee, has since announced that the VAT increase will now apply to both generation and consumption points.
Governor Sule emphasized that the Townhall meeting was an example of the kind of engagement that should have occurred before the bills were sent to the National Assembly. He believes that if the Tax Reform Committee had taken the time to properly explain the bills and address concerns, the governors would not have called for their withdrawal.
The Tax Reform Bills have been met with significant resistance, particularly from the Northern part of the country. Despite this, the bills were passed at the Senate for second reading through voice votes last week. The proposed legislation aims to harmonize, coordinate, and resolve disputes arising from revenue administration in Nigeria
