Tinubu’s tax reforms ‘ll curb elite recklessness—Bishop Kukah

In a surprising endorsement, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Hassan Kukah, has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills.

Despite his history as a vocal critic of the administration, Bishop Kukah described the reforms as a significant step toward addressing financial mismanagement and promoting fiscal responsibility in Nigeria.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief program on Tuesday, Kukah lauded the reforms as a remedy to what he termed the “recklessness of the elite.”

He emphasized that while the proposals have sparked widespread opposition, particularly in northern Nigeria, they represent an opportunity to reshape the nation’s financial narrative.

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“These reforms offer a chance to curb the rascality and irresponsibility of an elite class that has consistently mismanaged our resources,” Kukah stated.

“Nigeria is a nation of exceptional talent and energy, yet our inability to create platforms for harnessing this potential has often resulted in chaos and violence.”

The Bishop highlighted the importance of aligning the reforms with sustainable progress, stressing the need for better fiscal management and structures to channel the country’s abundant human and material resources effectively.

Kukah expressed optimism, saying, “I am excited about this conversation because it provides a pathway to end financial recklessness and transform how we manage our resources. This could mark the beginning of a long journey toward building a fiscally responsible and developed Nigeria.”

The tax reform bills, introduced by President Tinubu, have sparked fierce debates nationwide, with critics citing potential adverse effects on economically vulnerable populations.

However, proponents, including Kukah, view the reforms as a critical tool for addressing entrenched systemic issues.

Kukah’s endorsement adds a significant voice to the debate, underscoring the necessity for collective efforts to ensure the reforms succeed in fostering accountability and development.