Zulum opposes Tinubu’s tax bills, warns of hardship in North

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has vowed to rally northern lawmakers to reject the proposed tax reform bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu to the national assembly.

In an interview with the BBC, Zulum expressed deep concerns over the rapid pace at which the bills are being pushed, contrasting this with previous laws that underwent years of deliberation.

He warned that the proposed reforms, if passed, would devastate the northern region’s economy while disproportionately benefiting Lagos State. According to Zulum, the legislation could lead to widespread poverty, hunger, and economic hardship across the north.

The governor also reminded Tinubu of the region’s pivotal role in his victory during the 2023 presidential election, urging the president to heed their concerns.

“He should not ignore our concerns and the rumours that the north is not in his favour,” Zulum said.

Zulum cautioned against undue pressure on lawmakers to support the bills, raising fears of potential political maneuvering.

“What we fear is that some lawmakers might secretly support the bills, and politicians might bribe or persuade their members to vote for them,” he said.

He called on northern legislators to remain vigilant and protect the interests of their constituents, emphasizing that the proposed reforms would harm the region if enacted.

Ali Ndume, senator representing Borno South, has also been a vocal critic of the tax reform bills. Ndume has consistently opposed the measures during senate sessions, arguing they would further marginalize the north.

Background on Tax Reform Bills

In October, President Tinubu forwarded four tax reform bills to the national assembly for consideration. These include:

The Nigeria Tax Bill

The Tax Administration Bill

The Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill

The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has opposed the bills, while the National Economic Council (NEC) urged the president to withdraw them for further consultations. However, Tinubu has insisted that the bills remain under legislative consideration, allowing the national assembly to amend them as necessary.

On Thursday, the senate advanced the bills to a second reading, further fueling the debate over their potential impact on the nation’s regional economies.