By Emmanuel Kwada
In a bold move reflecting growing discontent over recent federal economic policies, the Adamawa State Coalition of Northern Groups (ASCNG) has called for the immediate suspension of the newly released tax reform bill by the federal government. The coalition argues that the proposed reforms threaten the well-being of the people of Adamawa State, the Northern region, and Nigeria as a whole.
At a press conference held in Yola, the coalition’s coordinator, Mr. Abubakar Dawwre, expressed deep concern over the increasing economic hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians. He stated, “In recent months, life has become increasingly unbearable for ordinary Nigerians due to a series of economic policies that have imposed immense hardship on the people.”
Mr. Dawwre highlighted the detrimental effects of the removal of subsidies on essential services, including fuel, electricity, foreign exchange, and education. He noted that these changes have exacerbated inflation, deepened poverty, and strained the resilience of millions. “To compound the hardship, the Federal Government has again introduced new tax reform proposals that, if implemented, will further erode the fragile economic foundation of the people,” he warned.
To compound the hardship, the Federal Government has again introduced new tax reform proposals that, if implemented, will further erode the fragile economic foundation of the people
The coalition characterized the proposed tax reforms as “ill-timed and inequitable,” asserting that they risk plunging Adamawa State and Northern Nigeria into deeper economic distress. Mr. Dawwre emphasized the need for immediate redress, stating, “We are here to call for urgent action, propose practical solutions, and ensure that the voices of our people are heard and respected.”
Among the coalition’s demands is a halt to any deliberations or implementation of the tax reforms until broad-based consultations are conducted with all stakeholders, including representatives from Northern Nigeria, civil society organizations, and community leaders. Mr. Dawwre criticized the current revenue-sharing formula, which allocates 20% for equality, 20% for population, and 60% for derivation, calling it “unequal and disadvantageous” to Adamawa State and the Northern region.
This adjusted formula reflects the collective contributions of all regions and promotes equity
To address this imbalance, the ASCNG proposed a revised formula of 40% for equality, 30% for population, and 30% for derivation. “This adjusted formula reflects the collective contributions of all regions and promotes equity, ensuring that the welfare of non-producing states like Adamawa is not overlooked,” he explained.
The coalition also urged the federal government to introduce meaningful economic palliatives to cushion the impact of the reforms. These measures should include targeted subsidies, access to affordable loans, and support for small-scale farmers and traders.
In addition to these demands, Mr. Dawwre highlighted the importance of reopening land borders to revitalize cross-border trade, which has been paralyzed by their closure. He pointed out that Adamawa State’s proximity to Cameroon positions it as a vital trade corridor, and the continued border closures have severely undermined the livelihoods of farmers, traders, and transporters.
It is imperative that the Federal Government adopts policies that are inclusive, equitable
The coalition further called for prioritizing the dredging of River Benue to address flooding, improve agricultural yields, and unlock new economic opportunities for the state. They also advocated for investments in upgrading power infrastructure to ensure a reliable and consistent electricity supply, as well as exploring renewable energy solutions to bridge the energy deficit and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Mr. Dawwre concluded by emphasizing the critical role of Adamawa State and the Northern region in Nigeria’s socio-economic stability and development. “It is imperative that the Federal Government adopts policies that are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the realities of our people,” he stated.
The National Assembly, and all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly and decisively to address these pressing issues facing the state
The Adamawa State Coalition of Northern Groups is calling on the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly and decisively to address these pressing issues facing the state. As the coalition rallies support for their cause, they aim to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and that their needs are prioritized in the ongoing economic discourse.
