Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has criticized the proposed tax reform bills, arguing that they would hinder progress in the northern region and negatively impact other parts of the country,Daily Trust reports.
The bills, submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in September, have faced widespread opposition, particularly from northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum, who have called for their withdrawal.
Despite protests and resistance, the Senate moved the bills forward, passing them for a second reading on Thursday amid a contentious plenary session. Speaking to the BBC Hausa service, Governor Zulum expressed frustration over the rapid legislative progress of the bills compared to others, such as the petroleum bill, which took nearly two decades to pass.
“We strongly oppose these bills sent to the National Assembly. They will not only drag the north backward but will also create problems for the South East, South West, and some states like Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo,” Zulum stated.
“This is not opposition for opposition’s sake. From our understanding, these bills pose a threat to the north as a whole. We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other leaders to reconsider. He received 60% of his votes from the north and should not heed those claiming northerners are not supportive. Our primary demand is the withdrawal of these tax bills.”
The governor criticized the urgency with which the bills were being handled. “Why the rush? The petroleum bill took nearly 20 years to pass, yet this one is already advancing within weeks. We need careful and deliberate consideration to ensure future generations benefit. If passed, these bills may leave us unable to pay salaries sustainably,” he warned.
When asked whether the bills would worsen hunger, poverty, and insecurity in the north, Zulum agreed, emphasizing that Lagos State and other regions share similar concerns. “Lagos is against it, just as we are. If both the north and south see these bills as detrimental, why not reconsider? Many National Assembly members, including some from the south, also oppose them,” he said.
Zulum clarified that his stance does not reflect opposition to the federal government but rather a call for policy review. “This isn’t about being against the government. We supported and voted for President Tinubu. However, these bills are not in our best interest.”
On allegations that lawmakers could be influenced to pass the bills, Zulum remarked, “There are rumors, but nothing is confirmed. Regardless, we must prioritize patriotism. We have children, grandchildren, and relatives in villages whose futures depend on us making the right decisions. We appeal to the President to listen to our concerns and act in the best interest of all regions.”
