The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has addressed concerns regarding the potential impact of the new Tax Reform Bills on President Bola Tinubu’s chances for re-election in 2027.
Speaking during a town hall meeting organized by Channels Television, Oyedele was questioned about the possibility that the controversial bills could harm Tinubu’s second-term bid.
The question stemmed from growing concerns that the reforms, particularly in the northern region, have generated political tension among some influential figures.
In response, Oyedele clarified that the reforms were designed with the broader interest of Nigerians in mind, rather than with any intent to undermine the President’s political future.
He expressed regret that the discussion had become so closely tied to Tinubu, noting that the recommendations driving the reforms were based on data and the collective input of Nigerians across the country.
“I feel really very sorry for Mr. President, even though he says nobody should feel sorry for him,” Oyedele remarked.
“It’s just Nigerians from all over Nigeria who came up with this analysis, using data to make those recommendations, but they bring everything on him. But as a leader, he’s taking all of it in good faith.”
Oyedele emphasized that the aim of the reforms was to benefit the nation as a whole, and he expressed hope that if any political fallout occurred in 2027, it would not be attributed to the tax bills.
“I hope that the reason why, if anything happens in 2027, will not be because of this bill, because that way, we’ll be doing an injustice, not only to him, but to the whole of this country, Nigeria,” he said.
The new tax reforms have sparked heated debates, with critics arguing that they could have significant political repercussions.
However, Oyedele’s comments sought to clarify that the changes were meant to position Nigeria for long-term fiscal sustainability and growth, despite the short-term political challenges they might create.