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 withdrawing the contentious Tax Reform Bill currently before the National Assembly.

In a statement shared on his X handle on Monday, Kwankwaso called on President Tinubu to reassess his position on the bill. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the country’s welfare over potentially disruptive reforms. “You should rethink your position on the Tax Reform Bills in the interest of Nigerians, so the country can move forward without further disruption,” Kwankwaso urged.

Kwankwaso pointed out that both Obasanjo and Jonathan had previously withdrawn critical bills to protect the nation’s well-being. He suggested that President Tinubu should follow their example and reconsider his stance on the tax reform proposals.

ALSO READ: House of Reps Suspend Tax Reform Debate Amid Northern Governors Resistance

“My view on tax reform is clear: now is not the right time to review VAT or introduce new taxes,” Kwankwaso stated. He cited the severe economic struggles many Nigerians are facing, noting that additional taxes would only burden the public further. Instead, he called for measures that would help alleviate the financial pressures on the people.

The NNPP leader also recommended that President Tinubu consult the National Economic Council and other respected figures, urging that decisions should reflect the collective interests of the nation rather than be driven by personal or political motives.

In closing, Kwankwaso reaffirmed his position, urging the president to withdraw the bills in favor of the nation’s welfare, drawing attention to how both Obasanjo and Jonathan set a precedent for such decisions in the past. “I respectfully urge President Tinubu to reconsider his position and ensure the voices of the majority of Nigerians are heard and respected in this matter,” he concluded.