Northern youths defend Barau, condemns misrepresentation of Tax Reforms Bills
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has condemned the misrepresentation of Deputy Senate President Sen. Barau Jibrin’s stance on the proposed tax reform bills, describing it as unjust.
The tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, which outlines the country’s fiscal framework for taxation, the Tax Administration Bill for streamlining tax processes, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill to replace the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, which proposes a tax tribunal and ombudsman.
During a press conference in Kaduna, NYCN President Isah Abubakar urged Nigerians to examine the bills thoroughly before forming opinions.
He argued that labeling the reforms as anti-north is a politically motivated narrative pushed by opponents seeking to tarnish Jibrin’s reputation.
Abubakar highlighted that government policies evolve based on prevailing circumstances, urging citizens to engage constructively rather than misinterpreting intentions for political gains.
He criticised Sen. Mohammed Ndume’s presentation on the floor of the house, which allegedly presented Senator Jibrin in a wrong light.
“Senator Ali Muhammad Ndume have unlimited access to the Deputy Senate President and should have spoken to him than unnecessary rising an eyes brow.
“Senator Jibrin is as a committed leader of the North, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and raised the bar of leadership in Northern Nigeria.
“His achievements include facilitating the creation of the North West Development Commission and attracting numerous opportunities for the region’s development.
“We at the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria are calling for a correction of the narrative surrounding Senator Jibrin’s stance, which we believe is politically motivated and aimed at destroying his hard-earned reputation.
“We must come to the reality that things must change. Northern governors must look inwards and become creative around turning things around for good. they must change the way they use public funds for personal business and concentrate on building infrastructure,” Abubakar said.
