The controversial tax reform bills, transmitted to the National Assembly in September by President Tinubu, have faced stiff opposition from Northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum.
Maiduguri, Nigeria – Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has voiced strong opposition to the controversial tax reform bills, warning that their implementation could cripple salary payments and hinder development, particularly in northern Nigeria.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Zulum criticized the rapid progression of the bills through the legislative process, contrasting it with the years-long delay often faced by other significant legislation, such as the Petroleum Industry Bill.
Concerns Over Northern Development
Zulum argued that the bills, if passed, would have dire consequences for the entire northern region, as well as parts of the South-East and South-West, including states like Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo.
“These bills will drag the north backward, and not only the north. Some states in the South-West and South-East will also suffer,” he said.
The governor appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the legislation, highlighting that Tinubu garnered significant electoral support from the north.
“We call on President Tinubu to review this decision. He secured 60% of his votes in the north. If our interests are served, that’s what matters. What we need now is the withdrawal of the tax bills,” he said.
Warnings of Economic and Security Fallout
Zulum further warned that the bills could exacerbate hunger, poverty, and insecurity in the country.
“If these bills scale through, we will not even be able to pay salaries. And if we pay, it won’t be sustainable the following year,” he explained, adding that the legislation could have a ripple effect on other socio-economic challenges.
Asked if the bills might worsen poverty in the north, Zulum replied, “Including security. But they’re saying otherwise. We are against it, Lagos is against it; if Lagos and the north oppose it, why won’t they rescind it?”
Call for Legislative Prudence
Zulum expressed frustration over the hasty treatment of the bills in the National Assembly, questioning why they were being prioritized over other longstanding proposals.
“Why the rush? A petroleum bill took almost 20 years to pass, but this one is already advancing in just a week. Let it be treated carefully and with caution so that even after our exit, our children would benefit,” he said.
Appeal for Patriotism
Responding to rumors of potential lobbying and inducements for lawmakers to support the bills, Zulum emphasized the need for patriotism among public officials.
“There are rumors, but we are not certain. What I am saying is that we should all be patriotic. We have children, grandchildren, and relatives in villages, and we must not endorse anything that impedes progress,” he said.
Zulum clarified that his stance does not signify opposition to the federal government, but rather a call for caution to prevent long-term harm to the nation.
“This does not mean we are against the government. We supported and voted for President Tinubu, but these bills will not be good for us,” he said.
The controversial tax reform bills, transmitted to the National Assembly in September by President Tinubu, have faced stiff opposition from Northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum. Despite the backlash, the Senate passed the bills for second reading on Thursday amid a rowdy plenary session.
Zulum concluded his appeal by urging the President to heed the concerns of northern stakeholders and prioritize the region’s progress and stability.
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