December 03, (THEWILL) – Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 General Election, Peter Obi, has called for extensive public engagement on the proposed tax reforms bill by President Bola Tinubu.
The proposed legislation, which seeks to prioritise the location of consumption as the basis for sharing Value Added Tax (VAT), has faced widespread resistance, particularly from northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum.
In a statement on X, the former Anambra governor argued that meaningful reforms require inclusive public hearings where Nigerians from diverse backgrounds can contribute their perspectives. He emphasised that such engagement fosters trust and ensures policymaking reflects the broadest spectrum of public opinion.
While recognising the government’s interest in boosting revenue, Obi pointed out that tax reforms must also consider their broader impact on national development and regional sustainability. He emphasised the importance of inclusivity, transparency, and public trust in policymaking.
The statement reads, “Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it. 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. This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking.
“A public hearing is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully. This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking. Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration—they should never be rushed.
“Public hearings must be conducted to allow for diverse opinions and inputs. Such public hearings would also enable the broadest spectrum of public opinion to be reflected in public policy.
“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.
“Furthermore, the government must sensitise the people and secure their buy-in for any policy changes. Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail.
“Let us prioritise transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward. This is how we build a truly participatory democracy.”
Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Reverend Mathew Kukah, has said the tax reform bill will end the elites’ financial recklessness.
Bishop Kukah, who made this remark on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Tuesday, urged the Federal Government to ensure that the ongoing reforms lead to the country’s development.
According to the cleric, “Nigeria is a very energetic country with people that are so eminently gifted and are roaring to soar at any time.
“However, our problem is the inability of states to create enough gatherings to contain the energy, vision, and competing narratives of their citizens. This lack of competitive gatherings often spills over into violence.
“But I hear you when you speak about all the issues identified. And I am excited about the issue of tax reform bills because, first, I know nothing about it. But I have started educating myself. Any form of reform at all must get this thoroughly dysfunctional country working again.
“So I am excited because hopefully, we can take the time to listen to the conversation about how to avoid and end this financial recklessness, and the irony of Nigerians living by the seaside and washing their faces with saliva.
“The reforms should end the narrative of Nigerians living in a country that is so richly endowed but are spectators to the rascality and irresponsibility of the elites who continue to mismanage our resources.
“So I’m hopeful that this is the beginning of a very long journey of fiscal management and efficiency that can lead to the growth and development of the kind of country that we envision.”
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
