Editor
As the Tax Reform Bills pass their second reading in the Senate amid strong opposition from members of the House of Representatives, a non-political group known as the Southern Borno Concerned Citizens (SBCC) has called on its members across nine local government areas and the diaspora to observe a one-day fast.
The fast, scheduled for Monday, December 2, 2024, is in honor of Governor Babagana Zulum and Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who have steadfastly opposed the controversial tax reforms.
In a press statement, the group’s chairman and spokesman, Comrade Bulama Sawa, emphasized the profound appreciation of SBCC members for the unwavering stance of the two leaders in defending the interests of the masses.
The fasting, he noted, is both a spiritual exercise and a demonstration of solidarity with leaders fighting to mitigate the potential hardships posed by the proposed tax reforms.
Statement from SBCC Leadership
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 (SBCC) 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 we urge all religious groups across Biu, Hawul, Shani, Bayo, Askira-Uba, Gwoza, Kwaya Kusar, Damboa local government areas, and those in the diaspora to participate.
“The decision underscores our deep gratitude for Governor Zulum’s exemplary leadership and Senator Ndume’s unwavering commitment to defending the masses against the proposed tax reforms. Both leaders have shown remarkable courage and dedication to protecting Nigerians from the adverse effects of these Bills.”
Widespread Opposition to Tax Reforms
The controversial bills—the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, and the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill—have been widely criticized by stakeholders. The Nigerian Governors Forum, the North East Governors Forum (chaired by Governor Zulum), and numerous senators have warned that these bills could exacerbate the economic hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Governor Zulum, in a recent BBC Hausa interview, called for a reconsideration of the bills, citing their potential to disproportionately impact northern populations, who played a pivotal role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s electoral victory. Senator Ndume has also voiced strong opposition, advocating for reforms that genuinely alleviate citizens’ struggles rather than imposing additional burdens through hastily introduced policies.
A Call for Unity and Divine Intervention
The SBCC has called on all Southern Borno residents and Nigerians to unite in prayer and fasting, seeking divine intervention and strength for leaders like Zulum and Ndume.
“This initiative is a call to action for all patriotic Nigerians to support leaders prioritizing the people’s welfare over partisan interests,” Sawa added.
The group also appealed directly to President Tinubu to reconsider the tax reform bills, warning that their passage could further strain the nation’s already fragile economy.
“We urge President Tinubu to listen to the voices of reason and withdraw these bills to prevent further hardship for Nigerians,” Sawa concluded.
The one-day fasting and prayer reflect the community’s commitment to supporting leaders who stand firm for the well-being of the people in the face of significant challenges.
