News
Sheikh Gumi Supports Tax Reform Bills but Urges Changes to VAT for Fairness
Islamic cleric and scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed Tax Reform Bills, which have faced strong opposition from northern governors, lawmakers, and traditional rulers.
The cleric described the bills as beneficial for all Nigerians, although he called for a review of the contentious Value Added Tax (VAT) component.
The Tax Reform Bills have sparked heated debates since they passed the second reading in the Senate last Thursday.
Northern leaders, including governors and members of the legislature, have expressed concern that the reforms could disproportionately impact their region.
Many traditional rulers have also voiced their apprehension, citing fears of economic imbalance and potential hardship for the already vulnerable populations in the North.
Addressing the matter on Tuesday, Sheikh Gumi emphasized that, while the tax bills are a step in the right direction for Nigeria’s economic progress, the contentious VAT provisions need careful reconsideration.
He stated that reviewing the VAT structure could alleviate the concerns of northern stakeholders without undermining the broader benefits of the proposed reforms.
In his words, “The Tax Reform Bills are fundamentally a good package for the nation.
However, the Value Added Tax element, which has raised significant concerns, should be reassessed to ensure it does not unfairly burden any region or group of people.”
News
Lagos Police React to Alleged Extortion of Dispatch Riders on Coastal Road
Lagos State Police react to claims of them taking money from dispatch riders on the Coastal Road in Lagos.
It started after a rumour was shared that police arrest and take money from riders as a demand for high bribes, sometimes reaching ₦200,000, and seize motorcycles if not given.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, then addressed the claims online and stated in his statement that he disagreed that the rumour is true and stated, “The spread of misinformation only causes more harm than good. In this era, we can and must do better.”
News
Ogun State Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Mark 50th Anniversary
It has been announced by the governor of Ogun that Tuesday 3rd of February is a public holiday in order to mark the 50th anniversary of the state creation.
This public holiday declaration was released in a statement by the secretary of the state, Tokunbo Talabi.
He then added that the holiday will provide as a day for the citizens to participate in the activities for the state milestone.
News
Public Reacts as Dino Melaye Criticises Nigeria’s Economy While Abroad
Former Kogi politician, Dino Melaye, faces backlash from the public after he shared a video on social media of him abroad and living well through his luxurious lifestyle.
In the same video, he speaks about Nigeria’s current economy and shares his disappointment.
He wrote, “See country, God help us to build a true nation where our wicked leaders will be in jail and the right people in power. Nigeria must be fixed. YES WE CAN.”
However, many state that what he posted and what he is saying contradict each other, and they accused him of sharing his own records to know if he was a corrupt leader.
