2027: Kwankwaso Accuses National Assembly of Rubber-Stamping Tinubu’s Policies

Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has accused the National Assembly of abandoning its constitutional responsibility by approving President Bola Tinubu’s proposals without adequate scrutiny.

Kwankwaso made the allegation on Sunday while speaking at the inauguration of the NDC campaign council in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.

The former Kano State governor criticised members of the Senate and House of Representatives, accusing them of supporting presidential policies and bills without properly considering their implications for Nigerians.

He particularly faulted the lawmakers over the passage of the tax reform bills, alleging that they ignored concerns about the potential burden on ordinary citizens.

Kwankwaso expressed displeasure that the session during which the tax bill was approved was chaired by a lawmaker from Kano State. He also claimed that the Senate President deliberately stayed away from the proceedings because he did not want to be associated with the exercise.

He further alleged that the Federal Government had delayed the commencement of tax collection under the new laws because of concerns that implementation could affect the ruling party’s chances in the 2027 general election.

According to him, although the bills had been passed into law, the government was reluctant to begin collection because of the possible political consequences.

Kwankwaso warned that Nigerians could face more aggressive tax enforcement if President Tinubu secured another term.

He said tax officials could begin visiting homes to collect levies, even searching personal spaces in an attempt to enforce payment.

The NDC vice-presidential candidate described the National Assembly as a rubber stamp for the President, arguing that lawmakers had failed to independently examine government proposals and protect the interests of the people.

“Our National Assembly members have become rubber stamps. They are just there, waiting for the President to present proposals for approval, regardless of public concerns or possible consequences,” he said.

Kwankwaso also questioned the Federal Government’s continued borrowing despite increased revenue from taxation, the removal of fuel subsidy and other sources.

He expressed concern over the government’s borrowing plans, particularly with only a few months remaining before the 2027 general election.

The former governor urged Nigerians to hold elected representatives accountable for their decisions, warning that lawmakers and other political office holders must answer for policies that fail to reflect the interests of the electorate.

He called on voters to carefully assess the performance of political leaders and reject those who, according to him, disregard the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians.