Islamic clerics support Tinubu’s tax reforms bill, urge cooperation
Islamic clerics have thrown their weight behind the proposed Tax Reform Bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu, stressing that Muslims are instructed by Prophet Muhammad to see tax payment as their obligation.
The scholars, who spoke at the sixth edition of the Muhammad Rosulullah International Conference (MRIC 2025) held at the Muhammad Rosulullah Mosque in Surulere, Lagos, argued that the “tax reforms are in line with the traditions of Prophet Muhammad as well as the Holy Qur’an.”
Speaking on the theme of the event, entitled ‘Tax Reform in the Life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)’, the Founder of the Muhammad Rosulullah Islamic Centre, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Mukhtar, urged Nigerians to exercise patience with the Tinubu-led administration.
He affirmed that the tax reforms have significant role to play in addressing some of the economic challenges facing the country.
While admonishing Muslims to emulate the Prophet on the principles and practice of taxation and management, he said: “The Muslim community is among the largest in Nigeria, and it is essential that we understand the concept of tax and its benefits. The essence of choosing this topic is to enlighten our people on the importance of tax payment and its connection to our faith.”
Chief Imam of the Lagos State Public Service Development Centre in Magodo GRA, Imam Shefiu Abdul Kareem, stated that there is need for the government to engage Nigerians in clarifying and addressing any contentious clause in the bill.
Imam Abdul Kareem explained how Prophet Muhammad managed taxes during his time, citing Zakat, Jizyah, and Sadaqat. He noted that these examples have similar link to the new regulatory tax reform by the president.
Another Islamic cleric, Abdul Rahman Adangba, also highlighted the importance of effective tax collection and distribution, adding that, “The Quran teachings are about humanity, and humanity is not possible without finances. The tax is a form of social security.”
-The Guardian
