The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has strongly opposed the Tax Reform Bill, describing it as a policy “conceived in bad faith” that endangers Nigeria’s unity and marginalizes the northern region’s resources.

In a communiqué released after its second bi-annual Board of Trustees meeting in Abuja on Saturday, November 23, NEF, under the leadership of Professor Ango Abdullahi, criticized the bill’s drafting and implementation processes. The forum accused the government of sidelining critical stakeholders, including the National Economic Council (NEC).

“In its present form, the Tax Reform Bill is conceived in bad faith, poorly packaged, and a palpable threat to our unity and national cohesion,” Abdullahi stated, warning against the potential marginalization of northern resources.

NEF commended the Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Nigeria Council of Traditional Rulers for their resistance to the bill, lauding their efforts as “patriotic.” The forum also urged Northern lawmakers in the National Assembly to stand firmly against the proposed legislation.

Highlighting the deepening education crisis in the North, NEF revealed that approximately 60% of students in the region have been unable to return to higher education due to rising tuition fees and transportation costs. The forum expressed doubts about the Federal Students Loan Scheme’s ability to alleviate the situation, citing that over 80% of Nigeria’s 20 million out-of-school children are from the North.

The forum also criticized certain political actors in the region, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the welfare of their constituents. NEF called on Northerners to remain vigilant in defending their rights, particularly their voting rights, and cautioned against manipulation by leaders using religious or financial means.

In its communiqué, NEF emphasized the importance of holding leaders accountable and resisting divisive policies and actions. “The people of the North must remain united, protect their rights, and ensure that their resources and interests are safeguarded,” the statement concluded.

The forum’s stance reflects mounting tensions over the bill, as it continues to provoke debate about its implications for national unity and resource allocation.