Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has urged President Bola Tinubu to follow the examples set by former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan by retracting the contentious Tax Reform Bill currently before the National Assembly, emphasizing it is in the nation’s best interest.
In a message shared on his X account on Monday, Kwankwaso stated, “You must reassess your firm position on the Tax Reform Bills for the sake of Nigerians, allowing the country to move forward decisively.”
Kwankwaso articulated that, “Just as former Presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan withdrew significant bills to protect the interests of the Nigerian populace, President Tinubu should reconsider his approach to this bill for the betterment of Nigeria.”
He expressed concerns regarding tax reform, asserting, “Now is not the appropriate time to evaluate VAT or introduce any new taxation. Given the current economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, implementing such measures would be imprudent.”
Kwankwaso stressed that the government should focus on providing assistance and relief to the citizens during these challenging times, rather than imposing additional financial strain.
He further called on President Tinubu to listen to the advice of the National Economic Council and other esteemed advisors, stating that decisions should prioritize the collective welfare rather than personal interests or ego.
“Historically, withdrawing these bills is not an unprecedented action. Both Presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan have previously taken similar steps to withdraw critical bills for the good of the nation, and I believe this path should be explored again,” he stated.
In closing, Kwankwaso respectfully implored President Tinubu to rethink his position on these bills, ensuring that the sentiments of the majority of Nigerians are acknowledged and valued in this process.
