Niger Delta statesman Chief Edwin Clark has launched a scathing criticism of northern governors’ resistance to President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, condemning what he describes as “arrogance of power” in their approach to national fiscal policies.
Speaking on Channels Television’s “Inside Sources with Laolu Akande,” the nonagenarian leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) expressed shock at the northern governors’ separate meeting following a collective decision by the National Economic Council (NEC), which includes all 36 state governors.
“I was so shocked when I learned that the 19 governors of the north have met again. If 36 of you met, why are you meeting again? The northern governors, most of them, don’t realize what they are doing. So, the double standards, this arrogance of power must stop,” Clark declared during the interview.
The elder statesman’s comments come amid growing controversy surrounding the Tinubu administration’s tax reform initiatives, which have faced opposition from various quarters, including the NEC under Vice President Kashim Shettima’s leadership. Clark particularly criticized the transformation of NEC from its constitutional advisory role into what he perceives as an executive body making political decisions.
Clark strongly defended the necessity of the tax reforms, stating emphatically, “As far as I am concerned, that tax bill must go on.” He questioned the basis of wealth distribution in the country, challenging those who participate in revenue sharing to consider its source and emphasizing the importance of tax compliance.
The PANDEF leader expressed concern about the broader implications of regional political blocs, criticizing the tendency of governors to form separate groups based on geographical or party lines. He argued that such divisions, whether through northern governors’ meetings or partisan governors’ forums, are detrimental to national unity and progress.
In a broader critique of governance, Clark emphasized that Nigeria requires collective leadership rather than concentrated power. He cautioned President Tinubu about the challenges of governing Nigeria, noting that “certain individuals want to run this country as their own country.” This observation came with a warning about the need for wisdom in leadership, particularly when facing opposition from powerful regional interests.
The veteran political figure also addressed what he sees as problematic aspects of presidential appointments, arguing against the practice of selecting ministers based on personal relationships rather than competence. “Nigeria does not belong to Mr President; Nigeria belongs to everybody. Every Nigerian is equal,” Clark emphasized, calling for a more inclusive approach to governance.
His criticism extended to the behavior of state governors, whom he accused of spending more time in Abuja pursuing additional funding rather than attending to their state duties. This practice, according to Clark, undermines effective governance at the state level and contributes to the country’s challenges.
The controversy over the tax reforms highlights deeper issues in Nigeria’s federal structure, particularly regarding revenue generation and distribution. As the debate continues, Clark’s intervention adds a powerful voice from the Niger Delta region to the national conversation about fiscal reform and governmental power dynamics.
The elder statesman’s remarks underscore the complex interplay between regional interests, national policy, and the ongoing challenge of building a more equitable and united Nigeria. As the tax reform debate continues, his call for an end to divisive political practices and the promotion of national unity over regional interests resonates with longstanding concerns about Nigeria’s political structure and governance.
