Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has called on the National Assembly to ensure that Nigerians are actively involved in discussions surrounding the proposed tax reforms by the federal government.
He emphasized the importance of transparency and inclusivity, warning against a system that prioritizes government revenue over the broader interests of the people.
In a post shared on X, Obi acknowledged that while tax reform is crucial, its implementation must reflect fairness and sustainability across all regions of the country.
“Carrying out tax reform is not bad; it is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it,” the former Governor of Anambra State wrote.
Obi stressed the need for public trust and engagement in the reform process. “A public hearing on tax reform is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully. This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking,” he stated.
He also cautioned against focusing solely on boosting government revenue without considering the overall impact on the nation’s economic and social landscape.
“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. We must also take into account the overall impact on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions,” he noted.
According to Obi, the success of any reform is rooted in trust and legitimacy.
“Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail,” he added