Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has rejected President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reforms, describing them as harmful to the welfare of Nigerians and the unity of the country.
Speaking through Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo during the 2025 New Year celebrations at the Filin Mahaha, Kofar Naisa open theatre, Yusuf reiterated his administration’s opposition to the reforms.
In a statement issued by the Deputy Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Shu’aibu, Gwarzo labeled the proposed tax bill as “ill-timed, lopsided, and inimical to the unity of the country.” He emphasized that the reforms would further burden Nigerians already grappling with economic hardships, particularly in the North.
“This tax reform bill is not the solution to our economic challenges. Kano State stands firmly against any policy that negatively affects the welfare of our people,” Gwarzo stated.
He urged the federal government to prioritize tackling poverty, hunger, and insecurity in northern Nigeria instead of imposing additional financial strain on citizens.
Governor Yusuf used the occasion to highlight his administration’s achievements, including advancements in healthcare, education, road infrastructure, and foreign scholarship programs.
He also referenced the January 2024 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed his election as governor, pledging continued service to the people of Kano State.
Meanwhile, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN), called on the Tinubu administration to ensure public accountability before implementing any tax reforms.
In his New Year message, Azinge emphasized the need for policies that alleviate hardship rather than exacerbate it. “My New Year message is a better life for Nigerians. We don’t want hardship of any kind in our system, and therefore, the government must try to cushion the effects,” he said.
Azinge highlighted the importance of judiciously using taxpayers’ money to build public trust. “For us to have meaningful tax reform, we must show, by example, that we are prepared to judiciously use the taxpayers’ money,” he added.
The monarch also stressed the need to address the root causes of Nigeria’s “Japa syndrome,” urging the government to focus on creating a prosperous economy, improving education, and enhancing healthcare.
On the legal challenge to his ascension to the throne, Azinge reaffirmed his readiness to defend his position in court. “Asaba is very democratic and accommodating… We will engage them in court; we are prepared to do so because, as far as we are concerned, all the issues raised are very spurious,” he stated.
