Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has expressed his reservations about the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
He made this call on Monday via a statement published on his X handle.
While acknowledging the importance of tax reform, Obi emphasized the need for robust and informed public debate, as well as inclusivity in policymaking.
“Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it,” Obi said. “However, such reform must be subject to robust and informed public debate. A public hearing on tax reform is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully.”
Obi’s call for caution on the tax reform bills comes amid concerns that the government is rushing to pass the legislation without adequate consultation with stakeholders. The former governor of Anambra State emphasized the importance of extensive deliberation and careful consideration in matters of this magnitude.
“Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration—they should never be rushed,” Obi said. “Public hearings must be conducted to allow for diverse opinions and inputs. Such public hearing would also enable the broadest spectrum of public opinion to be reflected in public policy.”
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Obi also stressed the need for the government to consider the overall impact of the tax reform bills on the nation and its regions. He argued that the government should not focus solely on the benefits of the reform to itself, particularly in terms of increasing revenue collection.
“When considering tax reforms and similar issues, it is insufficient to focus solely on the benefits to the government, particularly in terms of increasing revenue collection,” Obi said. “We must also take into account the overall impact on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions.”
The former presidential candidate also emphasized the importance of transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in policymaking. He argued that trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and that without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail.
“Let us prioritize transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward,” Obi said. “This is how we build a truly participatory democracy. A new Nigeria is POssible!”
Obi’s statement on the tax reform bills has sparked a lively debate on social media, with some Nigerians expressing support for his call for caution and inclusivity in policymaking. Others have criticized him for not taking a more definitive stance on the issue.
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