Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum Slams Tax Reform, A Threat to National Unity, Calls for Reassessment

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has raised strong objections to the proposed tax reform bill during an interview with BBC Hausa. He warned that the bill would have widespread negative implications, not just for the North but also for other regions, including the South East, South South, and South West. Specifically, he highlighted the potential economic strain on Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo states, arguing that only Lagos State stands to benefit from the reform.

Governor Babagana Zulum emphasized the need for a fair and inclusive approach to taxation. He expressed skepticism about claims that the bill could disadvantage Lagos, stating that if such claims were true, they would oppose any move that could harm Lagos State. His remarks reflect growing regional concerns about the equity of the proposed tax policies.

Impact on Northern and Southern Regions Highlighted

Governor Babagana Zulum expressed fears that the bill could exacerbate economic challenges in the North, already grappling with developmental issues. “This reform will bring backwardness to the North,” he stated, adding that the ripple effects could disrupt the economic stability of other regions. His comments suggest that the proposed tax changes may deepen the existing inequalities across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.

Governor Babagana Zulum also pointed out that the South East, South South, and South West could face similar difficulties. He called for a broader review to ensure that all regions benefit equitably from federal tax policies, urging the government to prioritize national unity and fairness in policymaking.

Call for President Tinubu to Reevaluate Policies

Governor Babagana Zulum appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to reconsider the tax reform bill in light of its potential divisiveness. He reminded Tinubu of the overwhelming support he received from the northern region during the presidential election, which accounted for 60% of his total votes.

The governor dismissed suggestions that the North is unsupportive of Tinubu’s administration, calling such narratives misleading. Instead, he urged the president to focus on inclusive governance and withdraw the contentious tax reform bill to maintain national cohesion.

Lagos State’s Role in the Controversy

Although the governor acknowledged claims that Lagos might also face disadvantages under the new tax regime, he reiterated the importance of equity. “We do not wish for Lagos to be at a disadvantage, but this bill is not the solution,” Babagana Zulum said. His comments reflect a balanced perspective, emphasizing that reforms should not benefit one region at the expense of others.

The focus on Lagos highlights the centrality of Nigeria’s commercial capital in national economic policies. However, Zulum’s remarks suggest that over-reliance on Lagos’s economic contributions could marginalize other states, exacerbating regional disparities.

Regional Leaders Join the Debate

Babagana Zulum’s stance has sparked discussions among regional leaders, with some echoing his concerns about the bill’s potential impact. Critics argue that the tax reform bill could undermine the economic recovery efforts of states already grappling with budget deficits and unemployment.

Supporters of the bill, however, maintain that it aims to streamline tax collection and enhance revenue generation. They argue that the reforms are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term economic growth, but critics like Babagana Zulum insist on a more inclusive approach.

The Road Ahead for Tax Reforms in Nigeria

The controversy surrounding the tax reform bill underscores the challenges of implementing policies in a diverse and complex nation like Nigeria. As debates continue, calls for dialogue and collaboration between federal and state governments grow louder.

Governor Babagana Zulum’s intervention highlights the need for a holistic approach to tax reforms, one that considers the unique economic circumstances of all regions. His appeal to President Tinubu serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to foster unity and development in a federal system.