The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Hassan Kukah, has backed proposed tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu.
Kukah, who shared his views during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief programme on Tuesday, said the bills will tackle elite financial recklessness and indiscipline.
Recall that the tax reform bills have sparked significant controversy since their introduction to the National Assembly.
The controversial bill has generated heated debate among political leaders and stakeholders alike. While many are calling for the repealing of the reforms citing ambiguities and elements of marginalization, others are backing them saying the bills will transform the country’s economic trajectory.
Atiku Abubakar former vice president of Nigeria, Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto State and a host of others have called on the federal government to withdraw the bills to create room for more consultation.
They warned that the bills if passed, would damage the northern region’s economy that’s grappling with a high rate of poverty and underdevelopment despite being the most populous part of the country.
Following approval of the Federal Executive Council in October, Tinubu transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration.
The government says the bills are aimed at overhauling the nation’s tax system, preventing leakages and ensuring true fiscal federalism.
They include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.
The proposed legislation seeks to consolidate existing tax laws, establish clearer frameworks for tax administration, and create bodies like the Tax Appeal Tribunal and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman.
Despite the opposition, Kukah expressed optimism, describing the reforms as a step towards better fiscal management and a remedy for financial mismanagement in the country.
He stressed that effective reforms are essential to set Nigeria on a path to sustainable progress.
“Nigeria is a very energetic country with people who are exceptionally gifted and always ready to excel. However, our challenge lies in the inability of states to create platforms that harness the energy, vision, and competing narratives of their citizens. This lack of structure often results in violence,” he said.
Kukah added, “I am excited because this conversation offers an opportunity to address and end financial recklessness. It is ironic that Nigerians, despite living in a richly endowed country, find themselves spectators to the rascality and irresponsibility of the elite who mismanage our resources. “These reforms should help transform the narrative and ensure the efficient management of our resources. I am hopeful that this marks the beginning of a long journey towards fiscal responsibility and the development of the nation we all aspire to build.”
