365NEWS gathered that In light of the Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration in the Senate and strongly opposed by members of the Federal House of Representatives, a non-political group, Southern Borno Concerned Citizens (SBCCs), has called on its members across nine local government areas and those in the diaspora to engage in a One-Day fasting in honor, solidarity, and prayers for Governor Babagana Zulum and Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume. The two leaders have strongly defended the controversial Tax Bills.
The fasting, which will take place on Monday, December 2, 2024, has been announced by Comrade Bulama Sawa, Chairman and Spokesman of SBCCs. It highlights the group’s deep appreciation for the two Borno leaders who have stood resolutely against the proposed tax reforms.
In a statement signed by Comrade Sawa, he noted: “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, as well as those living in diaspora, are enjoined to participate.”
Sawa emphasized that the fasting is a way to show gratitude for Governor Zulum’s leadership and Senator Ndume’s unwavering defense of the people against the tax reforms. Both leaders have consistently demonstrated their commitment to protecting Nigerians from the potential negative effects of these proposed bills.
The Tax Reform Bills—The Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, The Tax Administration Bill, and The Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill—have sparked significant criticism. Several stakeholders, including the Nigerian Governors Forum, the North East Governors Forum chaired by Governor Zulum, and various senators, have labeled the bills as anti-people, warning that their passage could worsen the economic challenges already faced by Nigerians.
Governor Zulum, in a recent interview with BBC Hausa, called for a reconsideration of the bills, highlighting their potentially harmful impact on the northern population, which played a key role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s electoral victory.
Similarly, Senator Ndume has been vocal in his opposition to the bills, advocating for reforms that genuinely address the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, rather than the rushed and controversial tax reforms.
The one-day fasting and prayer initiative is a call for divine guidance and support for the leaders as they continue to protect the welfare of the people. SBCCs expressed solidarity with Governor Zulum, Senator Ndume, and other patriotic leaders who prioritize the well-being of the people over partisan interests.
The group also appealed to President Tinubu to listen to the voices of reason and withdraw the bills to avoid further strain on the nation’s already fragile economy.
