Why I’m in support of Tinubu’s tax reform bills – Dogara

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has explained that he is in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tax reform bills not because they are perfect but because it is the right thing to do.

Dogara stated this at the 14 convocation of Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State as the Chancellor of the University, according to a statement by his media aide, Turaki Hassan.

President Tinubu had in October, transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for passage, but some governors, Northern Elders Forum, civil society organisations (CSOs), some federal lawmakers and other Nigerians have rejected the bills.

But Dogara said, “I must concede the fact that those opposed to it have the right to do so but I do not share their jaundiced nay tenuous and puerile position that because they disagree with some aspects of the reforms then the reforms must be withdrawn or killed.

“Leaders who are dedicated to reforms and progress don’t make such poor judgement calls, at all. What is acceptable to my mind, is that all those opposed to the reforms should clearly spell out what they are disagreeing with and make better propositions.

“For me, I did say because so many families are hurting, I do not subscribe to hiking any form of taxes and that the issue of derivation should be clearly spelt out in a manner that would leave no room for prevarication. I have my proposal in that regard and have no hesitation to stand my ground on any forum,” he added.

The former speaker said addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges requires bold, decisive, and coordinated actions across multiple fronts, adding that achieving the vision requires  sacrifices.