Ex-minister Henry Ikoh lauds governors over truce on tax reform

A former Minister of State Science and Technology and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ozurumba Henry Ikoh, has expressed delight on the communique issued by the Nigeria Governors Forum over the contentious Tax Reform Bills.

The Abia born politician described the move as a step in the right direction, adding that only such dialogue will ensure smooth and peaceful transformation of Nigeria’s nascent democracy.

In a statement made available to Discoverer Nigeria, Monday, the Abia State APC governorship aspirant for 2027 said “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a visionary leader with genuine intentions and honest interest for the unity and peaceful progress of the Nation.”

Chief Ikoh also called on all stakeholders and the governors to have implicit confidence in the president to deliver on the mandate and trust giving to him by Nigerians.

While citing the need for understanding and public awareness on areas of concern in the tax bill, the APC Chief advised on proper engagement with the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform for proper education on the content and direction of the tax reform bill.

Ikoh reiterated the need for the justifiability of the benefits and burden of taxation to be laid on the moral balance of equity based on economic participation and viability with respect to the contentious issues of increased VAT and the 60 % VAT revenue sharing.

The former minister also requested the various governments to take steps that will increase the Nation’s revenue base by attracting investments and boosting private sector participation in manufacturing and productivity through tax control and regulations and by making loans available for investors.

He said. “Nigeria is a country heavily endowed with natural resources, opportunities and great potential for foreign and local investors.”