Governor Bala Mohammed Warns Against Tax Reforms, Calls For National Unity

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has criticized the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly, describing them as skewed to favor only one section of the country.

Speaking on Thursday during a meeting with the Christian community in Bauchi, Mohammed urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the tax policy reforms, warning that they could lead to unrest.

He argued that the reforms do not benefit the North, adding that governors in the region might struggle to pay workers’ salaries.

Mohammed, who also chairs the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, stated:
“Tax reforms are not favorable for northern Nigeria. We won’t have the resources to pay salaries. They must listen, or else they are inviting anarchy. We supported the president in this state and others; they must not adopt policies that favor only one region.

“This is not about religion or tribe but about national unity and leadership. If this persists, we will resist it fiercely.”

President Tinubu, however, defended the reforms during a recent media chat, emphasizing their necessity for national progress.

“The tax reform is pro-poor and aims to expand the tax net to ensure broader participation. Leadership requires making tough decisions when necessary,” Tinubu said, reaffirming that the reforms are here to stay.

Amid growing opposition, particularly from northern leaders, Tinubu expressed openness to negotiations.
“Tax issues are subjects of debate and compromise. I am willing to engage in discussions to find common ground,” he added.

The reforms have sparked widespread debate, with lawmakers initiating consultations to address concerns raised by stakeholders.