Tax Reform Could Devastate Northern Nigeria~ Zulum

Gov. Zulum Warns Tinubu’s Tax Reform Could Devastate Northern Nigeria

 

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has strongly opposed the tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, warning that the proposals could have catastrophic effects on northern Nigeria. The governor voiced his concerns during an interview with the BBC Hausa service, calling for an urgent review of the legislation.

 

Controversial Tax Reform Sparks Backlash

 

The bills aim to prioritize the location of consumption as the basis for sharing Value Added Tax (VAT) revenues. However, this approach has sparked widespread opposition, particularly from the north. Northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum have collectively rejected the proposed reforms, labeling them as detrimental to national unity and development. Despite the outcry, the Senate passed the bills for a second reading on Thursday amidst heated debates.

 

Zulum Criticizes Rapid Progress of Bills

 

Governor Zulum expressed dismay over the speed at which the bills progressed through the National Assembly, contrasting it with the prolonged deliberations on other critical legislation like the Petroleum Industry Act, which took nearly two decades to pass.

 

“Why the rush? The petroleum bill took almost 20 years to become law. But this one is receiving legislative attention within a week,” Zulum remarked. “These bills, if passed, will not only drag the north backward but also affect states in the South East, South West, and even some parts of the South West like Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo.”

 

Economic and Security Concerns

 

The governor warned that the proposed reforms could exacerbate poverty, hunger, and insecurity in the north. “If these bills scale through, we may not be able to pay salaries, and even if we manage, it won’t be sustainable in subsequent years,” Zulum explained. He emphasized the importance of cautious deliberation, urging lawmakers to consider the long-term implications of the reforms on future generations.

 

Appeal to President Tinubu

 

Zulum appealed directly to President Tinubu, reminding him of the north’s significant support during the election. “He secured 60% of his votes in the north. He should not listen to those suggesting that northerners are not in support of him. Our call is simple: withdraw these tax bills and review them thoroughly,” the governor stated.

 

Clarification on Intentions

 

The governor was quick to clarify that his opposition to the tax reform does not signify a broader rejection of President Tinubu’s administration. “This is not about opposing the government. We supported and voted for him. But these bills will not benefit us,” Zulum said.

 

Allegations of Legislative Lobbying

 

When asked about rumors of lawmakers being lobbied with kickbacks to support the bills, Zulum acknowledged the speculation but refrained from making direct accusations. “There are rumors, but we are not certain. What I am saying is, let us all be patriotic. We have children and grandchildren in villages who will be affected. We must not endorse anything that hinders the progress of the north or any other region,” he urged.

 

 

Governor Zulum called for national unity and thoughtful deliberation, urging President Tinubu and lawmakers to consider the far-reaching consequences of the proposed reforms. “Let us be cautious and patriotic. This is about ensuring a better future for our children and safeguarding the development of all regions,” he concluded.