Former federal lawmaker Shehu Sani has called upon the Northern region to maintain their support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing the importance of not relinquishing control of the government to those who did not support it.
In a statement, Sani encouraged the North to back the Tinubu administration’s positive reforms, despite the recent opposition to the Tax Reforms Bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly.
The tax reform proposals initiated by Tinubu’s government have faced widespread criticism across the country, with some claiming they disproportionately target the northern region and could impose additional burdens on Nigerians
Sani highlighted the unique resources and advantages of the North, stating, “No other region in the country is as blessed as the North. We occupy approximately 65% of Nigeria’s total land area.”
He noted that nearly 70% of Nigeria’s 235 rivers are found in the northern region and pointed out the region’s capacity for agricultural production, citing its ability to grow cotton and sugarcane.
“We are sitting on a gold mine,” he asserted, stressing that the North is rich in natural resources that are vital for the nation’s economy.
Sani questioned why the North would continue to depend on assistance from others, underscoring the importance of self-sufficiency for preserving dignity and future prospects.
“If I recall correctly, this is a government that the North helped to elect. So why should you turn against the administration you supported?” he asked.
He urged the North not to abandon the government to those who did not participate in its election, reminding them that they played a crucial role in bringing it to power.
Sani pointed out that key positions in the government, including the Minister of Education, Chief of Defence, Minister of Commerce, and others, are held by individuals from the North, reinforcing the region’s significant influence in the current administration.
