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.”
An update has been shared on the burnt building at Balogun Market on Lagos Island, as it was revealed that a man was rescued 11 days after the building caught fire.
According to reports, the man was found alive on January 6, 2026, after being discovered under the rubble of the collapsed structure.
The survivor has since been taken for proper medical care, while further details are yet to be released.
Meanwhile, passersby and market traders have expressed concern, fearing that more people may still be trapped alive inside the building.
It has been reported that Anthony Joshua has officially been discharged from the hospital following the terrible car crash that claimed the lives of his two closest friends and supporters.
The boxing star was deemed stable enough to go home after the accident. After his discharge, he visited the funeral to pay his respects and see the bodies of his two friends.
Many have expressed grief and offered their support to the boxing star, praying that he will be able to find peace, as grief will undoubtedly be one of the most painful challenges he will face in life.
It has been shared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is calling on the federal government to suspend the tax law set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
This was revealed in a statement released by Ini Ememobong, National Publicity Secretary of the PDP. He stated that this new law shows how Nigerians and the masses will be affected, arguing that the government is prioritizing finance over security and other pressing matters.
“Rather than address these issues comprehensively, the Presidency has consciously minimized them and instead insisted that the commencement date must stand, despite the discrepancies,” the party said, adding that this “clearly shows where the priority of the government lies between Nigerians and money.”
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