Abdulmumin Jibrin backs tax reform bill, says it won’t undermine north

Abdulmumin Jibrin, a member of the house of representatives, says the proposed tax reform bill will not undermine the economy of the northern region.

Jibrin, a member of the New Nigeria Political Party (NNPP), representing the Kiru/Bebeji federal constituency of Kano, spoke during a programme on Channels Television on Monday.

Since President Bola Tinubu proposed the tax reform bill, there have been controversies around the proposed tax reform bill as citizens from the northern region see it as way to cripple the zone economically.

However, the lawmaker called on members of the public and stakeholders to approach the bill with patience and open-mindedness.

Jibrin, who is also a former chairman of house committee on finance, declared support for the bill, while noting that opposition from his region is often based on misunderstandings and quick conclusions rather than a consensus view,

“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,” he said.

“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 judgements.

“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.”

The lawmaker argued that the bill includes protective measures, or “buffers,” designed to prevent any negative impact on Northern states.

He noted that these provisions ensure that the north would not be disproportionately affected, asserting,

“These buffers are important in safeguarding the interests of the Northern region. They ensure that, even as the tax system is reformed, the North will not face any adverse consequences,” he said.

“It’s important for us to understand that these measures are specifically aimed at protecting our region while we engage in this necessary reform.”

He stressed the importance of understanding the broader vision of the reforms,

“The reform is not just about addressing immediate concerns; it’s about setting a solid foundation for long-term growth,” Jibrin added.

“We have to look beyond now and understand that the adjustments being made are necessary for a more sustainable and equitable future.

“If we approach this with a unified mindset, we can create a tax system that truly benefits all Nigerians, regardless of their region or income.”

He expressed optimism about the benefits the tax reform could bring to Northern Nigeria, stating,

“The North has untapped potential, with our land, population, and consumption power. This bill presents a chance to strengthen our economic autonomy,” he said.

“While the process is still in its early stages, I encourage a collaborative approach, assuring Northerners that this reform is intended to benefit all regions, not to undermine any.

“The legislative process will allow for thorough debate and necessary adjustments, ensuring the outcome is a fair, balanced tax policy for everyone.”

The lawmaker concluded by highlighting the long-term benefit of the reforms, asserting that they present an opportunity for collective action toward the prosperity of the north and the entire country.

He further urged that politics should not cloud the nation’s judgement, encouraging all parties to focus on the broader objective of national progress.