Bauchi Governor Urges Tinubu to Reconsider Tax Reforms, Warns of Potential Anarchy.

Bala Mohammed, the Governor of Bauchi State, has expressed his deep concerns regarding the tax policies proposed by President Bola Tinubu, asserting that they are detrimental to the interests of Northern Nigeria.

During a meeting with members of the Christian community at the Government House on Thursday, the governor, who also serves as the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, stated that the current tax reform bills under consideration in the National Assembly are biased and primarily benefit specific regions of the country.

Governor Mohammed strongly urged President Tinubu to retract these proposed tax reforms, emphasizing that they lack the potential to secure the necessary funds for the payment of public salaries and the development of essential infrastructure such as roads in the northern region.

He remarked, “It is critical that the presidency heed the widespread concerns regarding tax reform. This policy is not advantageous for Northern Nigeria; it fails to provide the necessary financial resources for salaries or infrastructure projects.

”The governor insisted that it is imperative for the federal government to listen to the grievances stemming from these tax reforms. He warned that neglecting these concerns could lead to unrest, stating, “If they do not pay attention, they may be igniting calls for anarchy, which is undesirable.”

He reiterated the sentiment that the electoral support of Northern states for the presidency should prompt consideration of the policies being implemented. Mohammed emphasized that these policies should not be crafted in a manner that favors a singular section or state in the nation.

He remarked, “This issue transcends religion and ethnicity; it is fundamentally about national unity and leadership that serves all Nigerians.”

In response, President Tinubu defended the tax reform bills during his inaugural Presidential Media Chat, maintaining that these reforms are essential for the revitalization of Nigeria’s economy.

The tax proposals have faced significant opposition from Northern governors and the National Economic Council since they were introduced to the National Assembly, where they have sparked a variety of reactions across the political spectrum.