Elder statesman and leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Dr Edwin Clark, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing tax reforms and the systemic inequities plaguing the country....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE➤
In a statement, yesterday, Clark emphasised that the unresolved tax reform debates underscored the urgent need for comprehensive restructuring to address Nigeria’s diverse economic and social challenges.
The former Federal Commissioner of Information reflected on President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, which sparked significant tension between the Federal Government and state governors, especially from the North.
While the government seeks to push forward with the reforms, many governors, alongside the Vice President, have called for a delay, urging more stakeholder consultations.
“The failure to restructure Nigeria is at the heart of our current predicament,” Clark asserted. He argued that only through restructuring could the country address pressing issues like fiscal federalism and the fairness of its tax and revenue-sharing system.
The lack of a clear framework for equitable resource distribution, especially between oil-producing and non-oil-producing regions has continued to fuel dissatisfaction.
The elder statesman specifically highlighted the Niger Delta’s plight, where despite contributing nearly 90 per cent of Nigeria’s oil, the region remains marginalised in appointments and contract allocations within the oil industry.
Clark criticised the recent composition of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing the absence of key representatives from major oil-producing states like Delta and Bayelsa as a direct affront to the Niger Delta people.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s colonial history, Clark pointed to previous struggles over fair taxation, citing protests like the Aba Women’s Riot of 1929, which were driven by oppressive tax policies.
Despite decades of such historical injustices, Clark lamented that Nigeria still failed to address its fundamental fiscal and structural challenges.
In his call for a national restructuring, Clark proposed a more inclusive approach to revenue-sharing and governance. He stressed that any future reforms should prioritise improving the collection and distribution of taxes, particularly in resource-rich regions, to foster social equity.
He urged Tinubu and the Northern governors to approach the tax reform issues with caution, warning that failure to address the legitimate concerns of marginalised regions could lead to further disillusionment and division.
“The time for tinkering is over,” Clark declared, insisting that only a full constitution review, focusing on equitable governance and resource distribution, could bring about lasting peace and unity in Nigeria.
He urged all Nigerians to support a comprehensive restructuring process that prioritises fairness, justice and the inclusive development of every region, emphasising that a truly united Nigeria could only emerge when every citizen is given equal opportunities to thrive. ...CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE➤
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