Elder statesman and leader of the Ijaw nation, Edwin Clark, has expressed firm support for the proposed tax reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, urging their progression.
Clark criticized northern governors for opposing the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly, describing their actions as misguided.
Speaking during the Sunday edition of Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Channels Television, Clark stated, “As far as I am concerned, that tax bill must go on.”
He continued, “I was shocked when I learned that the 19 governors of the north have met again. If 36 of you met, why are you meeting again? Most northern governors don’t realize what they are doing. This double standard, this arrogance of power, must stop.”
The leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) also criticized individuals who, he claimed, seek to run the country based on personal agendas.
“…Certain individuals want to run this country as their own. When they decide to share resources, they must ask where the money comes from. So, you must pay tax,” he added.
Clark further accused the National Economic Council (NEC), led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, of overstepping its advisory role and engaging in partisan politics.
He said, “That body (NEC) is a constitutional entity created to serve as an advisory council to the President, with governors attending meetings. But today, it has turned into an executive body engaging in politics.”
Clark lamented that many governors neglect their responsibilities at home, choosing instead to remain in Abuja in pursuit of personal financial benefits.
“I was shocked when the 36 governors, under the chairmanship of the vice president, recommended that Mr. President set aside the bill for further consultation. Then, the 19 northern governors met again. They should reflect on what has been achieved by dividing Nigeria into blocks—19 governors, 17 governors, Progressive Governors, PDP Governors. These divisions are not helping the nation,” he said.
He questioned the governors’ consultation efforts, asking, “How many times have they consulted their people? They are always in Abuja, thinking they will get more money, instead of staying in their states to address pressing issues.”
