Borno Gov Backs Ndume, Vows to Oppose Tax Reform Bills with Northern Lawmakers
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has declared his intention to rally northern lawmakers against President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, which he believes will harm the region’s economy.
In an interview with the BBC, Zulum criticized the reforms, warning that their implementation would lead to increased poverty and hardship across the north. He expressed concern over the rapid pace at which the bills are being pushed through the National Assembly, describing them as skewed in favor of Lagos State, Tinubu’s political stronghold, to the detriment of the economically vulnerable north.
“These reforms are unfair and will only deepen the economic struggles of the northern region while benefiting Lagos,” Zulum argued.
The governor also reminded President Tinubu of the north’s decisive role in his electoral victory, cautioning against sidelining the region.
“The north played a crucial role in electing him, and our concerns should not be ignored,” Zulum said.
He further raised concerns about possible underhanded tactics to secure support for the reforms, suggesting that lawmakers might face pressure or inducements to vote in favor of the bills.
“We fear that some lawmakers may be persuaded or bribed into supporting these reforms behind closed doors,” Zulum warned.