The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called for the immediate suspension of the Federal Government’s proposed Tax Reform Bills, citing a lack of stakeholder consultation and transparency in the process.
In a statement released on Saturday, NEF Chairman Al-Amin Daggash criticised the government for failing to engage experts and critical stakeholders before drafting the reforms.
He warned that the proposed measures could have adverse effects on Northern Nigeria and the country as a whole.
Daggash articulated, “Once again, it is necessary to reiterate, that indeed, Nigerians in general and Northerners in particular, are not really against the introduction of any form of good and meaningful reforms by those in positions of authority, at the federal, state or local government levels.
“Even though we shall remain very implacable in reaffirming that, our practical experiences teach us, that, going by global best practices, successful reforms are known to be underpinned by strict adherence to certain common cardinal characteristics of the public policy-making process.
“For the convenience of exposition, these similarities include, but, not limited to the under-listed basic essentials: Extensive pre-reforms early engagements with experts and critical stakeholders, to secure their buy-in.
“Establishing a very well-defined media/communication strategy, that clearly articulates the full import of the reforms and disseminates public awareness and mass enlightenment on a nationwide scale.
“Designing a robust, transparent and inclusive implementation mechanism. Proactively putting in place a well-sequenced process, to ensure that the meticulously planned reforms, really meet the society’s desired and anticipated outcomes.
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“The Northern Elders’ Forum make bold to say that the recently proposed Tax Reform Bills by the Federal Government, were clearly in the breach, with regards to adhering to the above listed common characteristics of reforms and public policy-making process, all over the world and in conformity with the global best practices.”
NEF urged the Federal Government to initiate a comprehensive dialogue with all relevant parties before proceeding with the implementation of the bills.
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