Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has voiced strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s proposed Tax Reform Bill. Speaking with BBC News Hausa, Zulum explained that the bill heavily favors Lagos State while creating challenges for other parts of Nigeria, especially the North.

The Governor warned that the tax reforms could lead to backwardness for northern states. He added that other regions, including the South East, South South, and parts of the South West, such as Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo, would also face difficulties.

Zulum acknowledged some supporters believe the bill could disadvantage Lagos, but he clarified that the goal is not to harm Lagos but to create fairness across all regions.

He urged President Tinubu to reconsider the reforms, highlighting that the northern region contributed 60% of the votes that brought him to power. Zulum dismissed the idea that the North is against the president, emphasizing that their demand is simply to withdraw the tax reform proposals.

The debate over the bill continues as the Senate advanced it to the second reading, despite growing opposition and widespread controversy.