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A political row has erupted after Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tax reform policies during a convocation at Skyline University, Kano.

Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, alleged the reforms were harmful to northern Nigeria, a claim that sparked condemnation from the Nationwide Agenda for Tinubu (NAT).

Mohammed Yusuf Ajiji, NAT’s Publicity Secretary, accused Kwankwaso of spreading “misleading and divisive” rhetoric. In a strongly worded statement, Ajiji asserted that Tinubu’s reforms are designed to address economic disparities nationwide, contrary to Kwankwaso’s claims.

“President Tinubu’s tax reforms, especially the revised Value-Added Tax (VAT) distribution, aim for equitable revenue sharing across all 36 states, not just Lagos, Rivers, and the FCT, which currently receive 70% of VAT proceeds,” Ajiji explained.

He emphasised that essential goods such as food, healthcare, and education remain exempt from VAT to cushion the cost of living for Nigerians.

Ajiji further accused Kwankwaso of engaging in “toxic politics” rather than enlightening the public on the benefits of the reforms.

“This is not the time for divisive rhetoric but for constructive dialogue to support policies promoting national progress,” he said.

With the tax reforms sparking polarised reactions, stakeholders are urging for fact-based discussions and unity to foster Nigeria’s journey toward economic equity.

As debates unfold, the spotlight remains on the balance between policy critique and constructive engagement.