Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has firmly rejected the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu, asserting that they threaten to devastate the northern region of Nigeria.
The bills, which prioritize consumption location for Value Added Tax distribution, have ignited significant opposition from northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Zulum expressed his discontent over the rapid progression of the bills through the legislative process, contrasting it with the lengthy deliberations of past legislation like the Petroleum Industry Bill, which took nearly two decades to pass.
"Why the rush?" he questioned, emphasizing the need for careful consideration to ensure future generations benefit from such reforms.
Zulum condemned the bills as detrimental not only to the North but also to other regions such as the South East and parts of the South West.
He warned that if enacted, these reforms could impede developmental projects and even jeopardize salary payments in northern states. "If these bills pass, we won’t be able to pay salaries sustainably," he cautioned.
The governor called on President Tinubu to reconsider his stance, reminding him that he garnered 60% of his electoral support from northern voters. "He should not listen to those claiming that northerners are not backing him," Zulum stated.
He urged for the withdrawal of the tax bills and reiterated that their opposition is not a rejection of the government but a plea for policies that serve the interests of all regions.
Despite widespread dissent, including from some lawmakers within the National Assembly, the Senate advanced the tax reform bills to a second reading amidst ongoing debates.
