The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has once again expressed its strong support for Senator Ali Ndume, praising his bold stance against the proposed Tax Reform Bills, which have been criticized for their potential to exacerbate economic hardship for ordinary Nigerians.
During a courtesy visit to Senator Ndume, the National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, reaffirmed the coalition’s dedication to backing the senator’s efforts to resist the controversial legislation.
In a statement issued on Monday, Charanchi explained that the purpose of the visit was to discuss strategies for opposing the bills at all levels of government.
He also noted that the CNG is engaging with communities across Northern Nigeria through town hall meetings to increase public awareness about the harmful impact of the reforms.
He said the goal is to empower constituents to reach out to their representatives and demand that they reject the proposed reforms.
“We will continue to utilize all available democratic tools to ensure these bills, which threaten the livelihood of millions, are rejected outright,” Charanchi said.
The CNG also took the opportunity to call on Northern lawmakers to remain loyal to their constituents and reject the proposed reforms, which they argue are poorly timed and appear to be driven by external pressures, such as from the World Bank.
The coalition expressed disappointment in some northern legislators who, it claimed, were seeking personal gain at the expense of their constituents, accusing them of potentially supporting the bills for political or financial advantage.
“We want to categorically warn any lawmaker from the North who supports these oppressive Tax Reform Bills: your betrayal will not go unnoticed. You simply sign to enslave the people who entrusted you with their mandate. CNG will practically lead campaigns against such betrayers who should be completely eliminated from the political landscape of northern Nigeria.
“Northern lawmakers must remember that they are in the National Assembly to serve the interests of their constituents, not to rubber-stamp policies dictated by external forces like the World Bank or any ethnic supremacist. Stand with the people, or face the consequences of their rejection,” he said.
The CNG also condemned what it described as reckless and irresponsible behaviour by some lawmakers, particularly from the North, calling it an affront to the collective dignity of the region.
The group insisted that now is not the time for policies that could worsen the economic situation for Nigerians.
“Any senator from the region who supports these bills is betraying the trust of their people. We urge our lawmakers to critically assess the implications of these reforms and prioritize the interests of the common people over foreign influence or personal gains.”
The CNG charges members of the House of Representatives to make sure that the bills not only do not pass the second reading but also, they are unanimously rejected and abandoned in the lower chamber.
The group also reiterated its commitment to holding public officials accountable and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard. The coalition vowed to intensify its advocacy until the proposed Bills are completely rejected or outrightly withdrawn.
On his part, Senator Ndume, wjo represents Borno South senatorial district in the National Assembly, commended the CNG for its proactive role in defending the interests of ordinary citizens.
He also assured the delegation of his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of his constituents in the National Assembly, pledging to act without fear or favour.
