Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has criticized the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly, claiming they are designed to favor only one region of the country,Daily Trust reports.
Speaking on Thursday while addressing the Christian community in Bauchi State, the governor called on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the proposed tax reforms, warning that they could lead to national unrest.
He expressed concerns about the reforms’ negative impact on northern states, particularly regarding their ability to pay workers’ salaries. As chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, Mohammed said:
“These tax reforms are not favorable for northern Nigeria because they will leave us unable to generate the funds needed to pay salaries. They must listen, or else they risk inciting anarchy, which is not good for the country. We supported the president in this state and other states, so our concerns must be heard.
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“This is not about religion or ethnicity; it is about national unity and equity. Good leadership requires fairness, and while we will continue to urge the government to reconsider, if this persists, we will not hesitate to fight for our rights. They will see our true resolve.”
President Tinubu, in a recent media chat, reiterated that his administration’s tax reforms are non-negotiable and aimed at widening the tax net to ensure a fairer contribution system.
“The tax reform is here to stay. It is pro-poor and designed to broaden the tax base so that more people contribute to national development,” Tinubu stated.
Acknowledging the controversies and resistance from some northern leaders, including governors and senators, the President expressed openness to dialogue.
“Tax matters are always subjects of debate and negotiation. I am open to discussions and adjustments where necessary,” Tinubu added.
