***Buba Galadima warns of political consequences if Tinubu goes ahead with the bills

Former Jigawa State Governor and ex-Foreign Affairs Minister, Sule Lamido, has strongly opposed the proposed taxation on inheritance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tax reform agenda, calling it a violation of Islamic principles. Speaking in an interview with The Guardian, Lamido urged the President to adopt a more inclusive approach in implementing economic policies, warning that high-handedness could undermine national trust.
Lamido emphasized that Tinubu, as a Muslim, should be aware that Islamic law explicitly prohibits taxation on inheritance, as the Quran dictates clear guidelines for the distribution of a deceased person’s wealth. “There is no way you can tax money that is meant for inheritance. It is illegal, against God, and against the Quran,” he stated.
He explained that in Islam, inheritance funds are primarily meant to settle debts and be distributed among rightful heirs according to divine instructions. Any attempt by the government to impose taxation on such wealth, he argued, would be a direct interference with religious doctrine and an unjust burden on bereaved families.
Beyond the inheritance tax, Lamido criticized Tinubu’s broader economic policies, particularly the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies on May 29, which he described as an “arrogantly executed” decision that worsened economic hardship for Nigerians. He urged the President to learn from past backlash and adopt a more consultative and transparent leadership style.
“Leadership requires engaging with the people, explaining decisions, and carrying citizens along. When policies are imposed without proper explanation, it breeds resentment and mistrust,” he warned.
Lamido also dismissed suggestions that opposition to the tax reforms should be met with threats, advocating instead for dialogue and understanding.
He urged the President to foster unity by ensuring that policy decisions align with both economic realities and cultural values.
The proposed tax reform bills, including inheritance taxation, have sparked significant debate across religious and political circles. Many see it as an unfair policy that contradicts deeply held religious beliefs, especially in a predominantly Muslim country like Nigeria.
As criticism mounts, Lamido’s comments highlight the urgent need for Tinubu’s administration to re-evaluate its approach and engage religious and community leaders in policymaking.
By prioritizing dialogue, transparency, and respect for religious laws, the government may avoid further alienation from the citizens it seeks to serve.
Veteran politician Buba Galadima has warned of dire Consequences if Tinubu Proceeds with the Tax Reform Bills as he was alleged to have boasted.
Against the backdrop on the 36 state Governors have now embraced the reform after some ammendments he cautioned President Tinubu against moving forward with the controversial tax reform bills, warning of significant political and social consequences should they become law.
Speaking on the matter, with the Guardian Galadima emphasized that every political decision carries ramifications that cannot be ignored, particularly when it concerns the welfare of the people.
When asked,
“Paradventure Tinubu goes ahead with the tax bills and they are signed into law, what will happen? I’m not God, so I can’t say for certain, but everyone knows that political issues have political consequences,” Galadima said.
He questioned the necessity of imposing additional hardships on Nigerians already grappling with economic strain. “The truth is, who is the tax bill meant for? It’s for the people. If the people say, ‘It may be good for tomorrow, but now it is not good for us,’ a wise leader should pack it aside for now,” he advised.
He criticized the government’s approach to decision-making, arguing that the current system often prioritizes those who “shout the loudest” rather than addressing the needs of the most affected. “Is this how we are going to build a nation? No, not at all,” he stated.

Galadima also highlighted concerns over a lack of inclusivity in the tax reform process. He accused the committee responsible for the bill, led by Taiwo Oyedele, of failing to consult governors from across the country. According to him, only the governor of Lagos State was engaged in discussions, making the process appear skewed toward a single region’s interests.

“Every governor, apart from some from the southwest, believes the financial system of the country is controlled by one tribe. There’s suspicion that justice won’t be served, even if the intentions are good,” Galadima alleged.

The outspoken politician also drew parallels to historical events, warning that Tinubu’s policies could align Nigeria with external forces that have historically sought to undermine its unity.
He specifically cited France’s influence in West Africa and its alleged role in destabilizing Nigeria since the Berlin Conference of 1884.

“France has always been at the forefront of dismembering Nigeria. They failed in the past, but now they see an opportunity through Niger, and Tinubu seems to be following their lead,” Galadima remarked.

He pointed to similar moves under former military ruler Sani Abacha, which ultimately led to Nigeria’s financial struggles with Paris. “People don’t follow history,” he lamented.
Galadima concluded by urging the president to tread carefully, warning that aligning with foreign powers or implementing unpopular policies could deepen divisions within the country. “The suspicion is that he himself might be trying to dismember Nigeria. With his antecedents, people see a match,” Galadima said, calling for wisdom in decision-making.
As the bargaining power for the North Galadima pointed to the role the region played in delivering victory for Tinubu in the 2023 general election with over 6m votes out of the total 8,794,726 votes nationwide, that made him to secure 36.61%.
A suble reminder that it holds the ace as far as 2027 election is concerned.
According to the Independent National Electoral commission(INEC)’s declaration Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scored total Votes of 6,984,520 (29.07%) to come second, Peter Obi of the Labour Party scored total Votes of 6,101,533 (25.40%) and
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the NNPP scored total Votes 1,496,687 (6.23%) to take the fourth position.
So the president can go ahead with his threats to pass the bills Galadima seem to be saying but with a reminder that there are political consequences.
Galadima speaking further said,
“I would also like to emphasize that this government was elected by the people from this part of the country. Why the North can criticize Tinubu’s Tax bills is because this administration secured over six million votes from the North, compared to just 2.7 million from the entire South.
“I don’t want to divide this discussion into ‘South’ and ‘North’; we should all approach these matters in clear, unified terms. If anyone from this part of the country criticizes the policies of the government, it is because they have a stake in it—they contributed to its establishment.”

A renowned scholar, Professor Emmanuel Onoja, has called for China’s strict anti-corruption measures, including capital punishment, to be adopted in Nigeria as a deterrent against corruption.

Delivering the 23rd Inaugural Lecture at Federal University Lokoja (FUL) on Wednesday, Prof. Onoja, a Professor of Accounting and Taxation, lamented that corruption has crippled Nigeria’s progress by undermining accountability, sustainability, and social justice.
In his lecture, titled “Accountability, Sustainability, and Social Justice: Key Catalysts for Nation-Building,” Prof. Onoja argued that corruption persists because punishments for offenders are too lenient.

“If Nigeria is serious about eradicating corruption, it must adopt stricter punitive measures like China, where corrupt officials are severely dealt with, including through capital punishment. Without decisive action, corruption will continue to rob the nation of its potential,” he declared.

Prof. Onoja stressed that for Nigeria to develop, it must integrate accountability, sustainability, and social justice into governance
In the area of accountability, he said leaders and institutions must be transparent and responsible, ensuring policies serve the people’s best interests.
In the area of sustainability, he said resource management must be efficient and long-term, ensuring future generations are not compromised.
For social Justice he pointed out that Government policies must be such that promote fairness and inclusion, bridging inequality gaps.

“These principles must not remain mere rhetoric but should shape policies, governance, and daily life in Nigeria,” he insisted.

The professor urged governments at all levels to strengthen anti-corruption institutions, enforce stricter penalties, and implement governance reforms that prioritize the well-being of citizens over personal interests.

Prof. Olafemi Akinwumi, Vice Chancellor of FUL, commended the lecture for addressing critical national issues, emphasizing that Nigeria’s future depends on transparency, fairness, and responsible leadership.

“For Nigeria to thrive, accountability, sustainability, and social justice must become the bedrock of our governance system,” he noted.

As Nigeria struggles with corruption at all levels, Prof. Onoja’s call for harsher consequences for corrupt officials adds to the ongoing debate on how best to tackle the menace and restore integrity in governance.

***Peter Obi Approves Leadership to Strengthen Nationwide Mobilization

The Obidient Movement, widely regarded as the most dynamic political awakening in Nigeria’s recent history, has taken a decisive step in solidifying its structure with the appointment of a new Advisory Council.
The announcement, made by Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the movement, marks a shift from electoral activism to long-term political and social influence.
Explaining further, Tako said though once driven by the 2023 presidential campaign of Peter Obi, the Obidient Movement has evolved into a structured, ideological force challenging Nigeria’s traditional political establishment.
“While critics dismissed it as a fleeting protest movement, its continued growth and organization prove otherwise.
By establishing a well-structured Advisory Council, the movement is laying the groundwork for a more strategic political engagement that transcends elections Tanko reiterated.
Hon. Seyi Sowunmi, Dele Farotimi, Chris Iyovwaye, Chris Nwakobia, Ibrahim H. Abdulkareem, and High Chief Peter Ameh are among the newly appointed leaders tasked with deepening grassroots mobilization, enhancing policy engagement, and shaping the movement’s future trajectory.
The Obidient Movement remains unique in its grassroots-driven approach, with no reliance on the traditional party structures that often dominate Nigerian politics.
Its ability to rally millions especially the youth against corruption, economic hardship, and weak governance has been its defining strength.

Dr. Yunusa Tanko emphasized that the movement’s ethos is built around the 5Cs ofCompetence in Delivering results, Character in Leading with integrity, Capacity in Handling complexity, Credibility Earning trust and Compassion in Putting the people first.
According to Tanko unlike many political movements that fizzle out post-election, the Obidient Movement is transitioning into a structured political force with long-term objectives.

The newly formed Advisory Council according to the coordinator is expected to expand grassroots mobilization across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, strengthen political engagement and advocacy beyond election cycles.
“They are also to develop policies and strategies that influence governance at all levels and promote volunteerism and civic participation among young Nigerians.”

This structural evolution Tanko said will ensure that the movement remains a potent political force, influencing decision-making and governance rather than merely reacting to elections.
As the Obidient Movement continues to build on its gains, he said the appointment of the Advisory Council signifies its commitment to long-term national transformation.
“By positioning itself as a watchdog over governance, a mobilization force, and a policy-driven movement, it aims to redefine Nigeria’s political landscape.

“While Peter Obi remains a central figure in the movement, the real power now lies in its widespread network of volunteers, strategists, and reform advocates, a collective force that is determined to keep Nigeria’s leadership accountable.

As the movement looks ahead, one thing is clear: the Obidient Movement is not just a moment; it is a movement with a mission to redefine Nigeria’s future.