The Digest:
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned Nigeria’s current tax reforms, arguing that prosperity cannot be achieved by imposing heavier burdens on the poor. In a statement on social media, he emphasized that sustainable development requires empowering small businesses, not merely increasing government revenue through taxation.
Key Points:
- Obi stated, "Prosperity cannot come by taxing poverty," calling for a fair, transparent, and people-centered tax system.
- He asserted that taxation must function as a genuine social contract rooted in sincerity and fairness.
- The former governor stressed that empowering SMEs is key to creating jobs, raising incomes, and naturally expanding the tax base.
- He warned that celebrating increased government revenue while citizens grow poorer undermines good governance.
- Obi's comments come amid public debate over discrepancies in the newly implemented tax laws.
- Opposition and civil society groups have raised concerns about variations between the passed and gazetted versions of the tax bills.
- The Tinubu administration has maintained that the reforms will proceed as planned to support structural economic reset.
Sources: The Punch, Peter Obi's Official Statement
Tags: Peter Obi, Tax Reform, Nigerian Economy, Poverty, SMEs, Fiscal Policy, NB Digest
