Peter Obi backs Tinubu’s tax reforms, says ‘they are overdue’

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration over its proposed tax reform bills, describing the reforms as critical and long overdue.
President Tinubu’s Tax Reform Committee, headed by Taiwo Oyedele, has faced backlash in Northern Nigeria, with various groups expressing their views about the bills.
Adding to the opposition, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum argued that the proposed tax reforms would benefit states like Lagos and Rivers, leaving others at a disadvantage if implemented.
However, a statement from the presidency explained that President Bola Tinubu proposed tax reforms to streamline Nigeria’s tax administration and create a more business-friendly environment.
In response to concerns raised by some stakeholders over the bills, President Tinubu ordered a comprehensive review to address the issues.
Meanwhile, legislators in the National Assembly have suspended action on the bills, calling on the executive arm to provide further clarifications and insights into the proposed reforms.
In a statement via X on Monday, Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, stated that there is nothing wrong with pursuing the tax reform bills.
However, Peter Obi asserted that a public hearing on tax reform is essential for Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully.
According to Obi, the federal government must sensitize the masses and secure their buy-in for policy changes.
The statement reads: “Tax reform is a critical 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. This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking.
“Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration—they should never be rushed. 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.
“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.
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.
“Let us prioritize transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward. This is how we build a truly participatory democracy.”