By Abigail Philip David
On Tuesday, the Northern Youth Assembly condemned House of Representatives member Abdulmumin Jibrin, who represents the Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in Kano State, for supporting the contentious tax reform bill.
The former Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation reportedly endorsed the bill during a recent TV interview, sparking backlash from the youth group, which labeled it an “anti-North tax reform bill.”
In a statement signed by Comrade Mohammed Hussaini Bauchi, National Assistant Publicity Secretary, the Assembly expressed disappointment, claiming Jibrin’s stance could further “relegate the region economically and commercially.”
The Assembly criticized Jibrin for supporting the tax reform proposed by the Tinubu administration, calling his position a show of disregard for his constituents and Northern Nigeria as a whole.
“As representatives of Northern Nigerian youth, we believe that this proposal, in its current form, will disproportionately affect the economic livelihoods and aspirations of our people,” Bauchi stated. “Your enthusiastic support of this anti-North bill reflects a misguided commitment to your constituents.”
The Assembly highlighted the North’s pressing issues, such as a lack of reliable electricity, rampant insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and poor infrastructure. They argued that Jibrin’s legislative focus should be on these socio-economic issues rather than endorsing reforms that could further strain businesses and households.
“We urge you to focus on addressing the socio-economic challenges ravaging the North,” the statement continued. “This tax reform, as proposed, threatens to increase the burden on businesses and families in Northern Nigeria—businesses already struggling with unreliable power, inconsistent policy, and limited Federal Government support.”
The youth group emphasized that Northern Nigeria needs leaders who will advocate for the region’s interests and avoid misleading their people for political gain.
