We won’t be able to pay salaries if tax reform bills scale through – Governor Zulum

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has voiced strong criticism of the tax reform bills currently under consideration, stating that their implementation would hinder the progress of the northern region and adversely affect other parts of the country.

The bills, introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in September, have sparked significant opposition, particularly in the north. Stakeholders, including northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum, have called for their withdrawal, citing concerns over their potential impact.

Northern leaders have widely rejected the bills, arguing that they are not in the nation’s interest. Despite this, the Senate advanced the bills to the second reading on Thursday amidst a heated plenary session.

Speaking to the BBC Hausa service, Governor Zulum expressed frustration at the speed in which the bills are progressing, contrasting it with the years-long process required for other critical legislation.

“We condemn these bills transmitted to the National Assembly. They will drag the north backward, and not only the north, South East, South West and some states in the South West such as Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, will have problems with these bills,” Zulum said.

“It is not opposition. This, based on our understanding, is something that will destroy the north in its entirety. Therefore, we call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others to review this decision. He secured 60% of his votes in the north. He should not listen to those telling him that northerners are not supporting him. If our interest is served, that is all. What we need now is the withdrawal of the tax bills.”

The governor questioned the urgency behind the bills, highlighting the extended deliberation period for other significant legislation.

“Why all the rush! There’s a petroleum bill that was presented but it took almost 20 years before it was finally passed. But this one was transmitted and now receiving legislative attention within a week. What we are saying is that, let it be treated carefully and with caution so that even after our exit, our children would reap the benefits.

“How we see it is, if these bills scale through, we will not be able to even pay salaries. And if we paid, it won’t be sustainable the following year.”

When asked about the potential effects of the bills on hunger and poverty, Zulum affirmed that they would exacerbate these issues, along with security challenges.

“Including security. But they’re saying otherwise. We are against it, Lagos is against it; that it will drag it backwards. If this is the situation, then why won’t they rescind it? Our National Assembly members and even some from the Southern region are not in support of these bills.”

Governor Zulum clarified that his stance was not indicative of opposition to the administration but rather a plea to reconsider.

“This is our stand and doesn’t mean that we are against the government. We supported and voted for him (President Tinubu). But these bills will not mean good for us.”

On allegations that lawmakers might pass the bills under external influence, Zulum responded, “There are rumours around but we are not certain. But you know we are in Nigeria! What I am saying is that let us all be patriotic. We have children, grandchildren and relatives who are in villages, therefore, we should be careful not to endorse anything that would impede the progress of the north and other regions. We are appealing to the President to listen to us and address our concerns.”