The National leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his position on the Tax Reform Bills, emphasizing that such decisions should be in the best interest of the Nigerian people.
In a post on his X handle on Monday, Kwankwaso revealed former presidents who withdrew critical bills in response to national concerns.
Kwankwaso stated that this is not the ideal time to introduce or revise tax measures, citing the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
Kwankwaso also urged Tinubu to listen to the counsel of the National Economic Council and other respected voices in the country, asserting that decisions should prioritize the common good over personal interests or ego.
He pointed to the precedents set by past Nigerian leaders, recalling how both Presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan withdrew key bills in the interest of the nation. Obasanjo, for instance, withdrew the revenue-sharing bill during his second term, while Jonathan, following advice from key political figures, withdrew a communication to the 7th National Assembly.
Kwankwaso urged President Tinubu to reconsider the Tax Reform Bills and ensure that the will of the majority of Nigerians is taken into account in this decision-making process.
According to Kwankwaso: “My position on tax reform is as follows:
“Now is not the right time to review VAT or introduce any new taxes. Given the economic challenges many Nigerians are currently facing, such measures would be ill-advised.
“The government must prioritize providing relief and support to the people, particularly during these trying times, rather than imposing additional financial burdens.
“I urge President Bola Tinubu to heed the counsel of the National Economic Council and other respected voices of wisdom. Decisions should be guided by the common good, not by personal or ego-driven motivations.
“Withdrawing these bills is not without precedent. In our democratic history, both presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan made similar decisions to withdraw key bills in the interest of the nation.
“President Obasanjo withdrew the revenue-sharing bill during his second term, and President Jonathan, upon the advice of prominent leaders such as the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, withdrew a communication to the 7th National Assembly.
“These actions were taken to benefit the nation, and I believe the same approach should be considered now.
“In conclusion, I respectfully urge President Tinubu to reconsider his stance on these bills and ensure that the voices of the majority of Nigerians are heard and respected in this process.”
