Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and prominent politician, has called on the Bola Tinubu-led administration to involve Nigerian citizens in a national debate before the passage of the controversial tax reform bills. Obi expressed his views on the matter in a statement shared on his official X account on Monday.
While acknowledging the importance of tax reform in driving the country’s development, Obi emphasized the necessity of subjecting such significant policies to thorough public deliberation. He stated that tax reforms are essential for the country, but should not be rushed through without comprehensive public input. “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,” Obi said.
Obi advocated for a public hearing on the tax reform bills, urging the government to provide an avenue for Nigerians from all walks of life to participate in meaningful discussions. This approach, he believes, would not only foster public trust but also ensure that policymaking is inclusive. “A public hearing is essential,” he said. “This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking.”
The former governor also cautioned against focusing solely on the potential financial benefits for the government. He highlighted the need to consider the broader impacts of the reforms on the country and its diverse regions. “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,” Obi stated.
Additionally, Obi stressed the importance of educating the public and securing their support for any proposed policy changes. He argued that trust and legitimacy are essential to effective governance and that without them, even the best-intended reforms may falter. “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,” he added.
The proposed Tax Reform Bills have sparked significant controversy since their introduction, with many stakeholders, particularly northern governors, calling for their withdrawal. Obi’s statement adds to the growing calls for more open discussion on the matter before any final decisions are made.
Gathered by: Onoro Promise Edesiri