Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has voiced strong concerns that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is proceeding with new tax laws despite alleged “impurities” that could impoverish ordinary Nigerians and sub-national governments. Governor Mohammed made these statements on Tuesday, framing his remarks as a pushback against what he perceives as a politically motivated campaign by the current administration. He is urging the Federal Government to thoroughly review these contentious tax measures before their implementation. The governor specifically highlighted that “In spite of all the impurities, they are still going ahead with it to impoverish the common man and the sub-nationals (states), and we are keeping quiet,” indicating a belief that the laws contain significant flaws that will negatively impact citizens and state finances. This sentiment comes amid broader accusations from Governor Mohammed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government is using anti-graft agencies to pressure governors into joining the party. President Tinubu, however, has remained steadfast in his commitment to the January 1, 2026, implementation date for these new tax regulations, setting the stage for a potential conflict over fiscal policy and its impact on the nation. The core issue revolves around the perceived unfairness and potential economic hardship these laws might introduce, particularly for vulnerable populations and state economies. What are the specific impurities in the new tax laws? Governor Mohammed has alluded to several problematic clauses within the legislation that he believes will disproportionately burden citizens and state governments, leading to widespread financial strain. How will these new tax laws affect Nigerian citizens? The laws are predicted to increase the tax burden on ordinary citizens, potentially reducing their disposable income and leading to a decline in living standards if not properly managed or revised. Why is Governor Mohammed accusing the Tinubu administration of a witch-hunt? He believes that the administration is employing tactics, including the use of anti-graft agencies, to target political opponents and coerce them into aligning with the ruling party, rather than focusing on genuine governance. The governor’s call for a review underscores a significant point of contention regarding the fiscal direction of the country under the current leadership. The implications of these tax laws extend to the autonomy and financial stability of states, as they are directly impacted by federal fiscal policies. The debate highlights a fundamental disagreement on the best approach to revenue generation and economic management in Nigeria. The urgency of the situation is amplified by the approaching implementation deadline, leaving little time for negotiation or amendment.
