The senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, Ali Ndume, has dismissed claims that northern Nigeria is parasitic or economically dependent.
According to the report by Punch on Monday, Ndume asserted that all regions of the country are interdependent.
The former Senate Leader emphasized the North’s role as an asset to the nation.
Ndume said, “The North was, is, and will never be a parasite or dependent on any region or even the country. We are assets, not liabilities, to Nigeria.
“Those who believe the current tax reforms are targeted against northern interests are naive. The law applies equally to all – low and middle-income Nigerians.”
The senator stressed the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s states and regions, calling for prudence and transparency in managing the nation’s resources.
He criticized the proposed tax reforms, arguing that their timing could exacerbate the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
He urged the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to prioritize expanding the tax base and improving collection efficiency while ensuring greater accountability in tax administration.
Additionally, Ndume called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to scrutinize commercial banks, which he noted report significant profits but may not contribute equitably in taxes.
Ndume also raised concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform package, which includes the creation of a Joint Revenue Board, a Tax Appeal Tribunal, and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman.
He stressed that such reforms must be accompanied by broader governance changes to address Nigeria’s fiscal challenges effectively.
He called for holistic government reforms, including the executive and legislative arms, to address inefficiencies and ensure fiscal sustainability.
Speaking further, Ndume emphasized the importance of timing and public support for successful reform implementation, urging the government to adopt a more inclusive and strategic approach to policy changes.
SOURCE: Franzen