December 01, (THEWILL) – The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has declared its support for President Bola Tinubu’s proposed Tax Reform Bills, describing them as transformative for Nigeria’s economic landscape.
In a statement on Sunday, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, highlighted the potential benefits of the reforms for the Igbo people, renowned for their entrepreneurial drive and commitment to economic self-reliance.
He noted that the reforms aim to eliminate double taxation imposed by certain state governments, creating a fair business environment that will boost local and foreign investments.
The statement read, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the esteemed socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo nation, emphatically endorses President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed Tax Reform Bills. After exhaustive consultations with stakeholders and a thorough review, we firmly believe these reforms are a transformative opportunity for the revitalization of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the improvement of Nigerian workers’ fortunes.”
According to Isiguzoro, the reforms are expected to safeguard the private sector, particularly benefiting industrious Igbo entrepreneurs who drive Nigeria’s economy through vibrant SME activities.
“In an environment of fairness and transparent regulations, these reforms will foster growth and robust business opportunities,” he said.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo called on Southern Federal lawmakers in both chambers of the National Assembly to support the bills.
The organisation urged Southern legislators to close ranks and transcend partisan divides to ensure the successful passage of the reforms.
“We reiterate our solidarity with President Tinubu and expect Southeast Federal lawmakers to provide unwavering support for these initiatives,” the statement added.
Isiguzoro expressed concern over opposition from Northern political elites, whom he accused of mobilizing against the reforms to preserve the current VAT derivation principles, which he described as inequitable.
“The resistance from some Northern factions poses a significant threat to the President’s agenda and the broader economic aspirations of millions of Nigerians. Such moves risk fostering a climate of resistance against meaningful reform,” he stated.
He warned that failure to pass the reforms could have political consequences for Tinubu’s administration, potentially sparking backlash ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged lawmakers, business leaders, and citizens to unite in support of the Tax Reform Bills.
“The promise of a prosperous and just Nigeria is within our reach, but it demands collective resolve to advocate for transparency, equity, and sustainable economic growth,” Isiguzoro said.
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