The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has declared total support for the proposed tax reforms by President Bola Tinubu, adding that the proposals are in the interest of the Igbo nation.
The group, in a statement on Sunday by its Secretary General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said they declared support for the proposed tax reforms after a deep study of the contents and consultations with stakeholders.
According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the reforms will rejuvenate the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), enhance the fortunes of Nigerian workers, and eliminate the scourge of double taxation.
The group also expressed concerns about the antagonism against the proposed reforms, alleging specifically that the Northern region is jittery of losing illicit gains if the bill is approved by the National Assembly.
“In an emphatic affirmation of progress and economic empowerment, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Igbo apex socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo nation, hereby announces its steadfast endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed Tax Reforms Bills.
“This endorsement comes after rigorous reviews, exhaustive consultations with an array of stakeholders, and an in-depth analysis of the bills’ implications for the Nigerian economic landscape.
“Our comprehensive evaluation has led us to the resolute conclusion that these tax reforms are not merely legislative proposals; they represent a transformative opportunity for the rejuvenation of Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the enhancement of the fortunes of Nigerian workers.
“By eliminating the scourge of double taxation imposed by unscrupulous state governors, these reforms will pave the way for an equitable business climate that significantly elevates both local and foreign investment potential.
“The Igbo people, renowned for our entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to economic self-determination, stand to gain immensely from these reforms. The proposed measures are expected to safeguard the private sector, particularly benefiting the industrious Igbos who play a pivotal role in driving the Nigerian economy through vibrant SME activities.
“In an environment characterized by fairness and transparent regulations, we are confident that the majority of the benefits arising from these tax reforms will bolster our( Igbo) endeavors, facilitating growth and fostering robust business opportunities,” the group submitted.
Ohanaeze, therefore appealed to all southern federal lawmakers in the National Assembly to work together towards ensuring the tax reform bills are approved by the legislators.
The group added that the decision to support the tax reforms aligns with an earlier decision to ignore the planned protests against the policies of the Tinubu government.
“In light of these compelling advantages, Ohanaeze Ndigbo ardently calls upon all Southern Federal Lawmakers(Senators & House of Reps Members)—both in the Senate and the House of Representatives—to unify their efforts in support of President Tinubu’s transformative restructuring program within Nigeria’s economic and fiscal sectors.
“It is imperative that our Southern Senators and House Of Representatives members close ranks, transcending partisan divides, to ensure that the Tax Reforms Bills navigate both chambers of the National Assembly successfully.
“We wish to reiterate our unwavering commitment to show solidarity with President Tinubu, as we expect that the Southeast Federal Lawmakers will provide essential backing to these initiatives.
“This collective support is particularly noteworthy as it underscores our strategic alignment with the President following our decision to abstain from nationwide protests in August 2024, a decision made in the spirit of dialogue and cooperation,” it stated.
On the opposition from some leaders in the northern region against the proposed tax reforms, Ohanaeze submitted that the northerners are only trying to frustrate the bill because the status quo favours their selfish interest at the expense of national growth.
It urged all stakeholders to support the proposals as it promises sustainable economic growth towards a prosperous Nigeria.
“Nonetheless, it is disheartening to observe the substantial opposition that has emerged from certain quarters within Northern Nigeria regarding these critical reforms.
“There is palpable concern that Northern governors are mobilizing their forces to stifle the progression of the Tax Reforms Bills within the National Assembly, relying on their numerical predominance to assert undue influence.
“This orchestrated opposition appears driven by a desire to perpetuate the current VAT derivation principles that unjustly favor select interests at the expense of equitable national growth.
“The implications of such maneuvers are profound. If the Northern political elites succeed in thwarting President Tinubu’s initiatives, it could set a dangerous precedent, fostering a climate of resistance against meaningful reform. This scenario poses a tangible threat not only to the President’s agenda but also to the broader economic aspirations of millions of Nigerians who yearn for a reformed and equitable system.
“Moreover, it cannot be overlooked that a successful passage of the Tax Reforms Bills could have far-reaching consequences for President Tinubu’s administration, potentially inciting a politically motivated backlash in the 2027 electoral landscape. It is essential that we, as a nation, confront these challenges decisively, fostering a collaborative spirit to advance our collective interests rather than allowing parochial motivations to derail our progress.
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo urges all stakeholders, including lawmakers, business actors, and citizens, to unite in support of these pivotal Tax Reforms Bills.
“The promise of a prosperous and just Nigeria is within our reach, but it demands our collective resolve to advocate for transparency, equity, and sustainable economic growth.
“Together, let us champion an agenda that uplifts all Nigerians and ensures that our legislative processes reflect the aspirations of a nation committed to progress and integrity,” the statement concluded.
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