Tax Reform Bill: Islamic Cleric Gumi Explains Why Tinubu Should Adjust VAT Component

• Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has backed President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, particularly the tax reform bills
• Despite opposition from northern leaders, governors, and lawmakers, Gumi disclosed to the press on Tuesday that the bills will benefit Nigerians
• However, the controversial cleric suggested that the VAT component in the proposed legislation may need to be adjusted to make the bill more equitable

Legit.ng journalist Esther Odili has over two years of experience covering political parties and movements.

Amid criticism from northern leaders, prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has expressed support for the new tax reform bills presented to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing them as beneficial for Nigerians.

Legit.ng reported that northern governors led by Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state, lawmakers and traditional leaders opposed the proposed legislation, arguing that its implementation could deepen poverty in the region.

Read also

Tinubu's tax reform bills: Northern youths storm national assembly, video emerges

But Sheikh Gumi’s endorsement added a significant voice to the debate over the proposed reforms.

Gumi backed the bills and claimed he had reportedly carefully studied the draft documents.

Gumi calls for VAT adjustments

The cleric commended the bills’ overall potential for reforms but suggested that the Value Added Tax (VAT) component requires adjustment to address concerns that have been expressed across the country.

As reported by The Nation, Gumi said:

“I believe the contentious VAT issue is the only part that needs to be reviewed; otherwise, it is a good package for all.”

Read more about tax reform bills here:

• Tax reform bills: Drama as Oyedele’s 2019 tweets against VAT hike resurface, trend online
• Presidency releases highlights of tax reform bills
• Tax reform bills: Gov Zulum finally mentions what will happen if Tinubu uses his power

Why Tinubu should pause on tax reform bills

Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that Tinubu was told to pause the process of passing the tax reform bills into law.

Read also

Peter Obi finally breaks silence on Tinubu's tax reform bills, gives 3 conditions for approval

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Youth Group spokesperson, Dare Glintstone Akinniyi, said the sudden accelerated hearing of the bill is raising concerns.

Speaking during an exclusive chat with Legit.ng, Akinniyi said Tinubu's government is insensitive and will push the people to the wall.

Proofreading by Nkem Ikeke, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng