Peter Obi has called on the federal government to conduct public hearings on proposed tax reform bills. Emphasizing inclusivity and transparency, Obi stressed the importance of public trust and deliberation in policymaking to ensure effective and sustainable tax reforms that benefit all regions of Nigeria.
Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the federal government to conduct a public hearing before implementing proposed tax reform bills. Highlighting the critical nature of tax reforms, Obi emphasized the need for extensive public engagement to foster trust and inclusivity in policymaking.
In a statement on Monday, Obi acknowledged the importance of tax reform but cautioned against rushed decisions. “Such reform must be subject to robust and informed public debate,” he said. “A public hearing on tax reform is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully.”
The former Anambra State governor outlined the benefits of public hearings, noting they provide a platform for diverse opinions and ensure that policies reflect the broadest spectrum of public sentiment. Obi stressed that reforms should focus on both boosting government revenue and assessing their impact on the sustainability of all regions in Nigeria.
“Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance,” Obi asserted, warning that reforms without public buy-in risk failure. He urged the government to prioritize transparency and public engagement to build a participatory democracy.
President Bola Tinubu recently proposed four tax reform bills—Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. The bills have faced criticism, with the Northern States Governors Forum opposing them and the National Economic Council calling for further consultation.
Despite opposition, the presidency reaffirmed that the bills would not impoverish any region and emphasized their potential for economic transformation. Tinubu has maintained that while the national assembly can amend the bills, they will not be withdrawn.
