Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections believes Nigerians must be consulted in the ongoing tax reform insisting it should not be done with the government as the sole beneficiary.
Obi in a note on X encouraged the National Assembly to ensure transparency in the reform proposed by the federal government, stressing that carrying out tax reforms is not bad.
In his statement, he said tax reform is a critical issue that “and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it.”
Obi said, however, that the public must be allowed to engage in meaningful debate regarding such reforms.
“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,” Obi added.
“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.
“Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail,” he stated.
Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it.
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) December 2, 2024
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…
