The Nigerian political landscape is bracing for an intense debate as federal lawmakers resume from their recess to deliberate on President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax bills. The proposals, aimed at boosting government revenue, have sparked a rift between lawmakers from the northern and southern regions, setting the stage for a potential showdown.

At the heart of the controversy is the perceived disparity in how the tax reforms could affect constituents in different regions. Lawmakers from the North argue that their constituents, many of whom are engaged in agriculture and small-scale trading, could face undue burdens from the proposed changes. Conversely, Southern representatives contend that the reforms are necessary to enhance national economic growth and expand the tax net to fund critical infrastructure projects.

The bills, which propose adjustments to Value-Added Tax (VAT) rates, corporate taxes, and new levies on digital transactions, are part of Tinubu’s broader economic reforms. However, critics argue that the measures may exacerbate regional inequalities if not carefully implemented.

Both sides are expected to present their arguments vigorously when the National Assembly convenes, with some analysts predicting that the debate could influence the trajectory of Tinubu’s administration.