With regards to the Tax Reforms Bills which has passed second reading at the Senate, while vehemently opposed by members of the Federal House of Representatives, a non-political group known as Southern Borno Concerned Citizens (SBCCs) has urged all its members across nine local government areas and those in diaspora to embark on a One -Day fasting in Honor, Solidarity and Prayers for Governor Babagana Zulum and their Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume who have stood firm in defending the controversial Tax Bills.
The embarking on the fasting which will commence on Monday 2nd December, 2024 by all and sundry according to the Chairman and Spokesman of the Group, Comrade Bulama Sawa underscores their profound appreciation to the two Borno leaders and others for their unyielding defense of the masses against the proposed tax reforms.
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In a press statement signed by the Chairman, Comrade Sawa said: “Following extensive deliberations with scholars and in response to the contentious Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly, the Southern Borno Concerned Citizens (SBCCs) has declared a one-day fasting and prayer session in honor of His Excellency Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume.
“This spiritual exercise will take place on Monday, December 2, 2024, and all religious groups in Biu, Hawul, Shani, Bayo, Askira-Uba, Gwoza, Kwaya Kusar and Damboa local government areas from the senatorial district, including those living in diaspora are enjoined to participate.
“The decision underscores our profound appreciation for Governor Zulum’s exemplary leadership and Senator Ndume’s unyielding defense of the masses against the proposed tax reforms. Both leaders have demonstrated a deep commitment to protecting Nigerians from the potential adverse effects of these reforms.
“The controversial Bills—The Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, The Tax Administration Bill, and The Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill—have faced widespread criticism. Stakeholders, including the Nigerian Governors Forum, the North East Governors Forum chaired by Governor Zulum, and numerous senators, have described the Bills as anti-people, warning that their passage could aggravate the economic hardships already faced by Nigerians.
“Governor Zulum, in a recent BBC Hausa interview, called for a reconsideration of the Bills, citing the adverse impact they could have on the northern population, which significantly contributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s electoral victory.
“Similarly, Senator Ndume has been vocal in his opposition, advocating for reforms that genuinely alleviate the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, and not the cooked and hasty means of passing the Tax Reforms Bills by the powers that be.
“The one-day fasting and prayer initiative is a call to all People of Southern Borno and Nigerians to seek divine guidance and support for our leaders as they strive to protect the welfare of the masses. We stand firmly with Governor Zulum, Senator Ndume, and all other patriotic leaders who prioritize the needs of the people over partisan interests.
“We also appeal to President Tinubu to heed the voices of reason and withdraw the Bills before they cause further strain on the nation’s already fragile economy. Sawa stressed.