Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has stirred national debate by revealing that only Lagos State stands to benefit significantly from the proposed tax reform bills by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The controversial bills, currently advancing through the National Assembly, have faced substantial resistance, particularly from Northern elites and governors who argue that they neglect regional interests and could deepen economic disparities.
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Northern Governors’ Concerns
Speaking during a live broadcast on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Governor Zulum reiterated the Northern Governors Forum’s position, emphasizing that their opposition is not against the Tinubu administration but is aimed at ensuring fairness and equity in the policy. Highlighting the North’s overwhelming contribution to Tinubu’s 2023 electoral victory—accounting for over 60% of his votes—Zulum stressed the importance of inclusive policies that benefit all regions.
“The Northern Governors are only requesting time for wider consultations,” Zulum clarified. He warned that if passed into law, the tax reforms would lead to a “backward” economic outlook for most states, leaving Lagos State as the primary beneficiary.
Details of the Tax Reform Bills
The contentious reforms include the following bills:
- Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill 2024-SB.583
- Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill 2024-SB.584
- Nigeria Tax Administration Bill 2024-SB.585
- Nigeria Tax Bill 2024-SB.586
These bills aim to centralize tax administration and improve revenue collection, a move supporters argue will boost the nation’s fiscal health. However, critics like Zulum believe this approach favors Lagos State, home to the highest concentration of businesses and taxable activities in Nigeria.
Divided Northern Voices
While the Northern Governors Forum and groups such as the Northern Elders Forum have criticized the reforms, youth organizations like the Progressive Northern Youth Forum (PNYF) have expressed support for President Tinubu’s stance, urging governors to propose alternatives rather than reject the bills outright.
The bills passed a second reading in the Senate on November 28, despite calls for their withdrawal. Tinubu’s administration insists the reforms are essential for reducing reliance on federal allocations and creating a sustainable economic framework.
What’s Next?
As debates intensify, stakeholders await the outcome of further legislative proceedings. For now, Zulum’s remarks highlight the urgent need for regional balance in Nigeria’s fiscal policies to ensure inclusive development.
For more information, visit the original report on Daily Post Nigeria
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