A key leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief (Dr.) Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing tax reform issues and the systemic inequities plaguing Nigeria.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Clark emphasized that the unresolved tax reform debates underscored the urgent need for comprehensive restructuring to address Nigeria’s diverse economic and social challenges.
Clark reflected on the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, which have sparked significant tension between the federal government and state governors.
While the government seeks to push forward with the reforms, several 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 veteran statesman specifically highlighted the Niger Delta’s plight, where despite contributing nearly 90% of Nigeria’s oil, the region remains marginalized in appointments and contract allocations within the oil industry.
Clark criticized 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 fails 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 prioritize improving the collection and distribution of taxes, particularly in resource-rich regions, to foster social equity.
Clark also urged President Tinubu and the Northern Governors to approach the tax reform issues with caution.
He warned that failure to address the legitimate concerns of marginalized regions could lead to further disillusionment and division.
“The time for tinkering is over,” Clark declared, insisting that only a full constitutional review, focusing on equitable governance and resource distribution, could bring about lasting peace and unity in Nigeria.
He concluded by calling on all Nigerians to support a comprehensive restructuring process that prioritizes fairness, justice, and the inclusive development of every region, emphasizing that a truly united Nigeria could only emerge when every citizen is given equal opportunities to thrive.