The Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has advised the Bola Tinubu administration to engage citizens in a national debate before finalizing the tax reform bills into law.
The politician shared this statement on his official X account on Monday.
According to the former Anambra State Governor, although the bills are critical to the development of the country, however, such reforms must be subjected to deliberations before a decision is finally taken.
“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,” he said.
The Tax Reform Bills have continued to generate controversies since their introduction, with particularly northern governors calling for their withdrawal.
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