Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has raised alarm over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, describing them as detrimental to Northern Nigeria and a potential catalyst for national unrest. Speaking on Thursday at the Government House while receiving members of the Christian community in Bauchi State, Governor Mohammed called on the presidency to reconsider the controversial policies.
The governor, who also chairs the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, asserted that the tax reforms currently before the National Assembly are skewed to favor one section of the country while neglecting others, particularly the North. He warned that the reforms could jeopardize the region’s ability to fund essential services such as salaries and infrastructure development.
The presidency must listen to the cries about tax reform. It is not a good policy for Northern Nigeria because we are not going to get money to pay your salaries or to do roads, he stated. Mohammed cautioned that failure to address these concerns could lead to national discord, saying, They must listen; otherwise, they are calling for anarchy. And that is not good.
Emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance, Mohammed urged the federal government to prioritize policies that promote national unity rather than favoring specific regions or states. It is not about religion; it is not about tribe; it is about national unity, national hegemony, and good leadership, he stressed.
President Tinubu has defended the tax reform bills, asserting during his first Presidential Media Chat that they are crucial to revitalizing the nation’s economy. Despite his assurances, the bills have faced strong opposition from Northern governors and the National Economic Council, who argue that the proposed changes disproportionately disadvantage their region.
The debate over the tax reforms has continued to spark mixed reactions across the country, reflecting broader concerns about equity, governance, and the federal government’s approach to economic restructuring. As tensions rise, calls for dialogue and compromise grow louder, with stakeholders urging the presidency to adopt a more inclusive approach to policymaking.
