Senator Ali Ndume has pledged to campaign against President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax bill, arguing that the tax increase would harm struggling Nigerians, especially in the North. He calls for prioritizing economic stability over tax hikes and challenges the government to address poverty before increasing citizens' financial burdens.
Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South has publicly opposed President Bola Tinubu's proposed tax reform bill, aligning with other Northern leaders who argue that Nigeria's current economic climate cannot support an increase in taxes. Speaking on October 30, 2024, Ndume emphasized that the government should focus on improving citizens' quality of life before imposing higher tax burdens. He warned that the middle class, already dwindling, would be further eroded by the proposed tax hike, pushing many into deeper financial hardship.
In his statement, Ndume stressed that increasing taxes is not a viable option, arguing that the Federal Government should concentrate on building a more stable economy where Nigerians have enough disposable income before adding new tax demands. He likened the situation to “allowing Nigerians to have enough blood in their body before you start asking for donation.”
The senator also questioned the motivations behind the tax proposal, suggesting it could harm the President’s reputation. He urged the Finance Minister, Wale Edun, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to reconsider the plan and avoid adding stress to an already struggling populace.
Ndume pledged to campaign actively against the bill, particularly emphasizing that the Northern region, already plagued by high poverty rates, should not bear additional tax burdens. He criticized Nigeria’s existing tax system for disproportionately affecting lower-income citizens, while major corporations, he argued, often evade their fair share.
