Kano joins NLC to reject tax bills, seeks mitigation of citizens’ hardship
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Kano has expressed a strong opposition to the Tax Reform Bills masterminded by President Bola Tinubu which are now in the National Assembly (NASS).
Governor Abba Yusuf on Wednesay declared the government’s objection through his Deputy Aminu Gwarz, during 2025 celebration held at the Filin Mahaha, Kofar Naisa open theatre, according a statement issued by Gwarzo’s Chief Press Secretary Ibrahim Shu’aibu.
The announcement coincided with a statement issued the same day by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) which rejected the tax bills and asked Tinubu to withdraw them, prioritise citzen’s welfare, and make way for a national dialogue on such reforms.
Apart from Kano, nearly all other Northern states and their federal lawmakers are also against the tax bills.
“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,” Yusuf was quoted as saying in the statement issued in Kano.
He applauded the resilience of Kano residents amid economic challenges, describing the proposed tax hike as “ill-timed, lopsided and inimical to the unity of the country.”
He added: “Nigerians in general, and the north in particular are growing under hyper inflation and unprecedented insecurity, therefore the presidency should pay more attention in tackling extreme poverty and hunger, especially in the northern part of the country.”
Yusuf highlighted his administration’s notable achievements in healthcare, education, road construction, and foreign scholarships.
The statement celebrated the reinstatement of Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano in 2024, describing it as a victory for the people’s will.
It reiterated that the authority to appoint an Emir lies solely with the Governor of Kano State and urged those meddling in Kano Emirate affairs to respect the law and uphold peace.
Yusuf implored Kano residents to remain united and steadfast, saying, “let 2025 be a year of shared prosperity and progress. Together, we will build a stronger Kano.”
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NLC adamant on withdrawal of Tax Reform Bills, seeks priority on citizens’ welfare
