Politics
Governors Push Back: Makinde Reveals Reasons Behind Demand For More Talks On Controversial Tax Bills
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, clarified on Sunday that the 36 state governors sought broader consultations on President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills to ensure nationwide inclusivity due to the significant implications of the proposed changes.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Makinde emphasized that he does not oppose the tax reforms but merely communicated the concerns raised by the governors. His remarks were issued via a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, during a media chat on Saturday at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State.
On October 3, 2024, President Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly: the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. These bills have stirred controversy, with numerous stakeholders raising objections to certain provisions.
Makinde, speaking on the National Economic Council’s (NEC) stance, explained that the council unanimously agreed to request the withdrawal of the bills from the National Assembly to allow for wider consultation with stakeholders.
“At the NEC meeting, we queried why the bills were already at the National Assembly without prior consultation. It felt like putting the cart before the horse,” Makinde said. “We decided they should be withdrawn to allow broader stakeholder engagement, ensuring alignment—whether in their original form or with necessary modifications.”
Addressing criticisms that he opposed the reforms, Makinde stated, “I simply presented the governors’ collective position. Unfortunately, some people have chosen to attack the messenger rather than focus on the message.”
Makinde also addressed the recent tragic events in Oyo State, describing the December 18 funfair stampede, which claimed the lives of 35 children, as a devastating loss. He noted that the tragedy, along with the January 2024 Bodija explosion that left five dead and 77 injured, could have been averted with proper safety measures.
The governor observed a minute of silence for the victims and assured the public that investigations were underway, though the legal process was taking time.
On allegations of land grabbing linked to the Circular Road project, Makinde dismissed the accusations, asserting that his administration was focused on breaking economic barriers and promoting structured development.
“The Circular Road will be Nigeria’s first motorway, with a 32km stretch from Technical University to Badeku, designed for orderly growth with only two exit points,” Makinde explained.
He reaffirmed his commitment to policies that might appear challenging in the short term but are aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering long-term prosperity for the state. “Our founding vision is one of prosperity, not poverty,” he said.
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