- Governor Abba Yusuf rejected Tinubu’s tax reforms, calling them detrimental to Nigeria's unity and welfare, particularly for the northern region
- Professor Epiphany Azinge urges President Tinubu to ensure efficient use of taxpayers' money before implementing tax reforms, stressing the need for a prosperous economy
- Both Kano and Asaba leaders emphasise the need to address hardship and poverty before introducing new tax policies, warning of the effects on citizens
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has voiced strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu's proposed tax reforms, asserting that they are "inimical to the unity of the country" and would harm the welfare of Nigerians.
Represented by his Deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, during the 2025 celebration at the Filin Mahaha in Kano, Yusuf declared that the tax reform bill was not a solution to Nigeria's economic challenges.
Deputy Governor Gwarzo, speaking on behalf of Yusuf, described the tax reform proposal as "ill-timed, lopsided and inimical to the unity of the country."
He added that Nigerians, especially in the northern region, are grappling with hyperinflation and severe insecurity, and that the government's focus should be on addressing extreme poverty and hunger.
Kano State has stood firm against policies that negatively affect its citizens, with the deputy governor emphasising the administration’s achievements in healthcare, education, road construction, and foreign scholarship initiatives.
He also reminded the residents of the Supreme Court ruling in January 2024, which affirmed Yusuf as the duly elected governor of Kano State.
The criticism of the proposed tax reforms comes as other public figures also weigh in on the issue.
The Asagba of Asaba, Professor Epiphany Azinge (SAN), called on President Tinubu to ensure public accountability before proceeding with any tax reforms.
In his New Year message, Azinge emphasised that the government must address the burden of hardship before implementing new policies, stressing the importance of efficiently using taxpayers’ money to restore public trust.
Azinge also spoke about the importance of creating a buoyant and prosperous economy to improve education, healthcare, and overall living standards, particularly to prevent the ‘Japa syndrome’—the mass migration of Nigerians abroad in search of better opportunities.
While addressing his own legal battles, Azinge expressed readiness to meet with former contenders for the throne in court after being crowned the Asagba of Asaba in October 2024.
2027 Election: Governors threaten lawmakers’ re-election over support for tax reform bills - Agbese
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that some state governors allegedly pressured federal lawmakers to withdraw support for Tinubu's Tax Reform Bills, threatening to block their re-election in 2027.
Philip Agbese affirmed the House's commitment to passing the Tax Reform Bills with minor adjustments.
