The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has expressed concerns over the Federal Government’s proposed tax reform bills, stating that the measures, if implemented, would disproportionately benefit Lagos State to the detriment of other regions.
Governor Zulum clarified that his stance is not opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration but a call for a more inclusive and consultative approach to the legislation.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Zulum, a staunch supporter of Tinubu, emphasized the need for careful deliberation before the bills are passed into law.
He noted that during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, governors recommended pausing the bills to allow broader consultations with stakeholders.
Key Concerns Raised by Zulum
1. Regional Disparity: Zulum argued that only Lagos would significantly benefit from the reforms, leaving other regions, including Northern Nigeria, the Southeast, and the South-South, at an economic disadvantage. He pointed out that even Lagos officials admitted they would face some losses but still gain more overall compared to other states.
2. Hasty Implementation: The governor questioned the urgency of passing the bills without thorough review, stressing the importance of understanding their full implications. “Why are we in a rush? Let us pause and have deeper consultations,” he urged.
3. Democratic Principles: He underscored the importance of democracy and consultation, stating that decision-making processes must involve all stakeholders. “We are not running a garrison democracy,” Zulum remarked, rejecting accusations that his critique implied disloyalty to the president.
A Unified Call for Fairness
The controversy surrounding the tax reform bills has intensified tensions between state governors and the Federal Government. Many governors have called for the withdrawal of the bills to allow room for comprehensive discussions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined the debate, advocating for transparency and fairness in the legislative process.
Zulum’s Commitment to Collaboration
Zulum reiterated his commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his long-standing support for Tinubu. He described himself as one of Tinubu’s earliest backers for the presidency and clarified that his call for caution was motivated by the need to protect regional interests, not by any personal opposition to the president.
The proposed tax reforms remain a contentious issue, with stakeholders divided over their potential impact. As the debate continues, Zulum’s insistence on consultation highlights the need for a balanced approach to national policy-making.
Leave a Reply