The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the Northern governors for their abrupt reversal on the contentious Tax Reform Bills, labeling the move a betrayal of public trust and a disservice to the Northern region.
AYCF National President Yerima Shettima, in a statement on Friday, expressed disappointment over the governors’ decision, accusing them of incompetence and inconsistency in managing their states’ affairs. Shettima criticized the governors for initially opposing the reforms, citing concerns about their potential impact on the struggling Northern economy, only to reverse their stance without offering any clear concessions or explanation.
The statement accused the governors of generating needless controversy and misleading the public with divisive rhetoric, instead of constructively engaging with the federal government to address concerns and negotiate amendments to the reforms. Shettima described their approach as short-sighted and politically motivated, highlighting their failure to prioritize the long-term welfare of their constituents.
Shettima also argued that effective taxation is crucial for funding essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, emphasizing that the benefits of the reforms far outweigh any short-term challenges. He maintained that the governors’ opposition and subsequent capitulation reflected poor governance and a lack of accountability.
The AYCF leader further contended that many Northern states are plagued by poverty, underdevelopment, and inadequate basic amenities due to mismanagement and corruption. He alleged that the governors used their initial opposition to the reforms as a distraction to mask their failures, only to abandon their stance without achieving any tangible outcomes.
Shettima called for transparency from the governors, demanding a clear explanation for their sudden change of position. He accused them of manipulating public opinion and undermining democratic trust, while reaffirming the AYCF’s support for the tax reforms as a necessary step toward sustainable economic development.
The AYCF pledged to continue advocating for policies that promote progress and to hold leaders accountable for their actions, urging Northern governors to focus on their primary responsibility of improving the lives of their people through good governance and effective resource management.
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