Peter Obi to FG: Consider impact of tax reform bills on all regions

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, has urged the federal government to consider the overall impact of the tax reform bills on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions.

In a statement on Monday, Obi said when considering tax reforms and similar issues, Obi said it is not enough to focus solely on the benefits to the government, particularly in terms of boosting revenue collection.

“We must also take into account the overall impact on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions,” he said.

“Furthermore, the government must sensitize 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.”

Obi said tax reform is an important 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,” he said.

According to the former governor of Anambra state, conducting a public hearing would ensure the government builds public trust and ensures inclusivity in policymaking.

“Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration—they should never be rushed,” he said.

“Public hearings must be conducted to allow for diverse opinions and inputs.

“Such public hearing would also enable the broadest spectrum of public opinion to be reflected in public policy.”

Obi asked the government to prioritise transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward, adding that “this is how we build a truly participatory democracy”.

In October, President Bola Tinubu asked the national assembly to consider and pass four tax reform bills.

The legislations are the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.

The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) opposed the bills, while the national economic council (NEC) asked Tinubu to withdraw them for further consultation.

However, Tinubu said the tax reform bills will not be withdrawn but the national assembly can make changes.

On Monday, the presidency said there is no provision in the tax reform bills before the national assembly that will impoverish the northern region of the country.