Former Anambra State Governor and politician, Peter Obi, urged the federal government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to engage Nigerians in a comprehensive national debate before finalizing the proposed tax reform bills.
Obi made the call through a statement shared on his official X account on Monday.
While acknowledging the importance of tax reforms to national development, Obi emphasized the need for transparency, public input, and deliberate consideration to ensure the reforms align with the interests of all Nigerians.
“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 stated.
He underscored the significance of public hearings, stressing that such forums would allow Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to contribute to shaping the policy.
“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,” he said.
Obi cautioned against rushing decisions on tax policies, noting that extensive deliberation is key to sustainable reforms.
He argued that any proposed changes should not focus solely on increasing government revenue but also consider the broader impact on citizens and the sustainability of all regions of the country.
“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,” he added.
Obi highlighted the importance of trust and legitimacy in governance, warning that reforms imposed without public support risk failure.
“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 concluded.
The tax reform bills have sparked widespread debate and criticism since their introduction, with notable opposition from northern governors who have called for their withdrawal.
Obi’s remarks add to the growing calls for a more inclusive approach to the reform process.
