Kano political critic and commentator Bashir Hayatu Gentile expressed strong opposition to Abdulmumini Jibrin Kofa, the representative for Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency, over his recent support for controversial tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking in a radio interview in Kano, Gentile called Kofa’s stance a direct threat to the welfare of northern Nigeria.
“I urge Honorable Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso to distance himself from Abdulmumini Jibrin Kofa’s actions within the party,” Gentile stated. “The NNPP has also distanced itself from Kofa’s actions, recognizing the potential issues this could cause.”
Gentile criticized Kofa’s support of the tax proposals, warning it could lead to hardship across the northern region.
“Kofa supports something that could devastate the north, leading to widespread hardship. If this tax law passes, the north could face severe difficulties.”
Gentile also warned that the tax law could disrupt regional unity and stability. “If enacted, this proposed tax law will undermine the north’s security and unity, erasing any progress made,” he added.
He described Kofa’s decision as a betrayal of the north. “We condemn Kofa’s support for this tax law, viewing it as an act against northern Nigeria,” he declared.
Kano Times reports that Abdulmumin Jibrin urged the public and stakeholders to approach the proposed tax reform bill with patience and open-mindedness.
The bills have generated significant controversy, meeting resistance from the northern part of the country, with the National Executive Council also advising the president to withdraw the bills.
Jibrin Kofa expressed support for the bill, emphasizing that opposition from his region is often based on misunderstandings and quick conclusions rather than a consensus view.
The lawmaker said, “There’s a crisis of perception here. People hear ‘tax reform’ and immediately assume it will negatively impact them without ever taking the time actually to review the details of the bill. Many of the critics haven’t even looked at the bill closely. President Tinubu is seen as a tax and revenue-focused person, and because of that, when you hear discussions about the bill, people jump to conclusions.
“I urge everyone, including lawmakers, the media, and the public, to engage with the actual content of the bill before making judgments. It’s easy to assume, but if you look at the bill, you’ll see that it’s not about imposing new taxes on the common man. Instead, it addresses systemic issues and proposes reforms that benefit the broader society.”
