Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano, criticized the proposed tax reform bills, accusing Lagos of attempting to dominate northern Nigeria. He urged national lawmakers to reject the bills, claiming they would worsen regional inequalities. The reforms have sparked debate over their potential economic impact on the north.
Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano, has called on Nigeria's National Assembly to be vigilant and ensure that proposed policies do not harm the interests of northern Nigeria, particularly Kano. Speaking at the convocation ceremony of Skyline University in Kano, Kwankwaso highlighted concerns about the potential impacts of recent tax reform bills, suggesting they could disproportionately affect the northern region.
Kwankwaso accused certain individuals in Lagos of attempting to impose policies that would not only undermine the north's autonomy but also shift economic power to the southern region. He specifically pointed to the relocation of businesses to Lagos, claiming that it would lead to the loss of crucial tax revenue for northern states.
Furthermore, Kwankwaso voiced concerns about the selection of emirs in Kano, alleging that external influences, particularly from Lagos, were attempting to interfere in local governance matters. The former governor called for unity in the National Assembly to prevent such influences and ensure fair treatment for all regions of Nigeria.
This warning comes amidst debates over tax reforms proposed by President Bola Tinubu, including the establishment of the Nigeria Revenue Service and changes to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). These reforms have sparked opposition from northern governors, who argue that the legislation would disproportionately benefit southern states, leading to greater economic disparities. Kwankwaso's call for careful consideration of these bills aims to protect northern Nigeria’s interests.
