Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for broader stakeholder consultations on President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, emphasizing their significant national implications. While clarifying his stance during a media chat on Saturday at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, Makinde reaffirmed his support for reforms but highlighted the concerns raised by Nigeria’s 36 state governors.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor explained that the National Economic Council (NEC) unanimously recommended the withdrawal of the bills from the National Assembly for extensive consultations.
Makinde pointed out that the four tax bills—Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill—were submitted to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024, before consultation with the NEC.
“At the NEC meeting, we asked the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force about the status of the bills, and he confirmed they were already at the National Assembly. It amounted to putting the cart before the horse,” Makinde said.
The NEC agreed the bills should be revisited to ensure inclusivity and alignment based on stakeholder feedback.
Makinde described the December 18 Ibadan funfair tragedy, which claimed 35 children’s lives, as a monumental loss. The incident occurred at Islamic High School, Basorun, during an event organized by the foundation of Naomi Silekunola, a former queen of the Ooni of Ife.
The governor compared the tragedy to the Bodija explosion in January, which killed five people, injured 77, and damaged 58 houses. The explosion was linked to explosives stored by illegal miners.
Makinde observed a minute of silence for the victims and assured the public that ongoing investigations would bring justice.
Responding to allegations of land grabbing tied to the Circular Road project, Makinde dismissed the claims as baseless. He highlighted the significance of the 32km motorway connecting Technical University and Badeku, stating it would spur structured development and economic growth.
“Some accuse me of land grabbing, yet those under investigation for the same crime make these allegations,” Makinde said. “This project is a bold step to break economic stagnation.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Makinde announced plans for a major overhaul of Oyo State’s education infrastructure. He revealed that his administration consistently exceeds UNESCO’s budgetary allocation benchmark for education and estimated that N60 billion is required to address the sector’s challenges.
“Our vision is to break the cycle of poverty by prioritizing education and initiatives with long-term benefits,” he said, reaffirming the state’s commitment to prosperity-driven governance.
Makinde reiterated his administration’s focus on bold reforms, even if they face initial resistance, to create lasting impacts for Oyo State residents.
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