Northern Group Defends Gov Bala’s Position On Tax Reform BillS

The leadership of the North Central Citizens Council (NCCC) has expressed support for Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed amid the ongoing debate about the Tax Reform Bills.

In a statement released yesterday, the group showed solidarity with the governor’s call for the president to withdraw the bill, warning that the North may be forced to show its true colours.

The statement, signed by the organisation’s coordinator, Comrade Mohammed Eneji, affirmed full support for the governor’s stance on the controversial Tax Reform Bills. It emphasised that the governor’s statement was neither confrontational nor controversial but reflected the sentiments of the average Northerner.

“It is important to state categorically that Northern Nigeria, especially the North Central, shares the same concerns about the bills. The economy is already in turmoil, and Northerners are the most affected by the anti-mass policies of President Tinubu.”

“We hereby express our solidarity and support for his excellency, Governor Bala, from the North Central Zone.

These tax reforms are anti-people. The government cannot continue to borrow without delivering tangible results. This is the position of our council.”

“Governor Bala has the right to speak for his people as a governor and a subnational leader under the Tinubu-led government, and as such, his voice deserves to be heard.”

“Instead of Sunday Dare dismissing Governor Bala’s comments as a threat, the government should listen to the voice of reason, which represents the general North,” the statement added.

It further advised the presidency to heed the governor’s warning, noting that frustration among citizens continues to rise due to the harsh economic conditions. It also warned that if policies such as the Tax Reform Bills, which could further impoverish and underdevelop the region, are enacted, the North may be compelled to withdraw its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next election.

“We will campaign across the entire region, starting from our zone, against Tinubu if these policies continue. This government lacks empathy for the common man. These draconian policies will only benefit Lagos and a few other states. No state in the North Central stands to benefit from the proceeds of these bills, which is why we are totally against them.”

The group also urged the government to ensure adequate security for farmers to access their farmlands, which would boost agriculture, provide food for citizens and export, and revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company to full capacity. It also called for developing solid mineral resources across the entire northern region.

Furthermore, the NCCC called for reopening all land borders to stimulate business in the region and develop all sea and dry ports.