Governor Zulum Urges Caution Over Tax Reform Bills.
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has voiced strong opposition to the proposed tax reform bills currently under consideration by the National Assembly, warning of their potential adverse effects on the northern region and other parts of the country.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa service, Governor Zulum criticised the swift progress of the bills, which were transmitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in September. He noted that such rapid legislative action is unusual, pointing out that other significant bills, such as the petroleum bill, took nearly two decades to pass.
“We condemn these bills as they will drag the north backward. It’s not just the north; states in the South East, South West, and even some in the South West, like Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo, will face difficulties if these bills are passed,” Zulum stated.
The governor highlighted concerns over the financial sustainability of state governments if the bills become law. “If these bills scale through, we won’t be able to pay salaries, and even if we did, it wouldn’t be sustainable the following year,” he warned.
Zulum also emphasised that the reforms could exacerbate hunger, poverty, and security challenges in the region. He joined other northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum, in calling for the withdrawal of the bills.
The proposed legislation has already sparked protests, with many stakeholders accusing the government of prioritising the bills without adequate consultation. Despite the opposition, the Senate passed the bills for a second reading amidst a heated plenary session.
Governor Zulum clarified that his objections were not intended as opposition to President Tinubu’s administration but as a plea for reconsideration. “This is not opposition. We supported and voted for him. However, these bills will not benefit us or the country at large,” he said.
Zulum urged lawmakers and the federal government to prioritise patriotism and consider the long-term impact on future generations. “We have children, grandchildren, and relatives in villages. Let us not endorse anything that will impede progress in the north or other regions,” he appealed.
As the debate over the tax reform bills continues, Zulum and other stakeholders remain adamant in their call for careful review and inclusive dialogue to address the concerns of all affected regions.
