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
Governor Zulum Claims Some People Profit from Boko Haram Insurgency
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has alleged that certain individuals are benefiting financially from the prolonged insurgency caused by Boko Haram and are reluctant to see it end.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, the governor lamented how these individuals, who profit from the crisis in the Northeast and neighboring Chad, are hindering efforts to combat the insurgency.
“There are people who don’t want this insecurity to end because they will not be happy with that,” Zulum stated.
While acknowledging progress in the fight against the insurgents, he expressed concern about the resurgence of Boko Haram fighters who have returned to the region after being driven out of Chad.
Zulum called for unity among citizens and urged them to support security agencies to tackle the menace effectively. However, the governor refrained from naming those allegedly profiting from the crisis.
Entertainment
Pastor Bolaji Idowu of HICC Interrogated by Police in Abuja For Fraud
Nigerian Pastor, Pastor Bolaji of the Lead Pastor of Harvesters International Christian Center (HICC), is under interrogation with the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja. The Pastor has been accused for real estate fraud and illegal money collection.
A report was shared with the confirmation from the police that this is just the beginning of the investigation with Pastor Bolaji. The investigation will be a long process as they will look through his financial records.
A police stated to the media “The Next Level Prayer Conference, Pastor Bolaji Idowu, has been arrested by the police, and he is being grilled in Abuja over real estate fraud and money laundering.”
News
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Advocates Heavier Taxes for Wealthy Nigerians to Boost Economy
Jimoh Ibrahim, the Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, has called for the taxation of rich Nigerians to help address the country’s economic challenges. Speaking to the Senate Press Corps after plenary on Tuesday, December 3, Ibrahim emphasized that taxing the wealthy is a global practice during economic crises.
During the plenary, he provided insight into the report on the 2025-2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP). Ibrahim highlighted that implementing higher taxes on affluent citizens would be a first for Nigeria and an effective way to increase the nation’s revenue.
“The rich in Nigeria are not paying enough taxes to be good jolly fellows with the poor. In other countries, taxes are paid on transactions, and the rich contribute more. Luxury taxes should be monitored and collected,” he said.
The senator also proposed the creation of a comprehensive database of taxable wealthy individuals, noting that only 18% of Nigerians currently fall within the tax net, leaving 72% untaxed.
Ibrahim urged the government to focus on transactional taxes for affluent citizens and to introduce laws ensuring effective collection of luxury and other taxes.
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