Northern leaders have voiced strong opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent declaration that the controversial tax reform bills will not be reversed.
The critics, including senators, the Northern Elders’ Forum, and the League of Northern Democrats, described the President’s approach as unilateral and lacking proper consultation with stakeholders. 
They urged the administration to reconsider its position to prevent further political friction and alienation of lawmakers.
Senator Mohammed Onawo emphasized the need for legislative independence, stating, “Legislators must identify contentious areas and amend sections that do not reflect public opinion or benefit the general populace.”
Similarly, the Northern Elders’ Forum warned that bypassing democratic processes could undermine governance.
Spokesperson Abdul-Azeez Suleiman added, “By preemptively declaring the bills’ passage, the President risks alienating lawmakers and creating unnecessary political friction.”
Meanwhile, Umar Sani of the League of Northern Democrats called for flexibility, arguing that some provisions, like the inheritance tax, conflict with religious beliefs and need urgent review.
