The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has expressed support for tax reform but cautioned against rushing the process, stressing the need for transparency, public engagement, and careful deliberation.
The proposed legislation, which seeks to prioritise the location of consumption as the basis for sharing Value Added Tax (VAT), has faced widespread resistance, particularly from northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum.
Despite this opposition, Tribune Online reports that the Senate passed the bills for a second reading on Thursday amid a rowdy plenary session.
In a statement on X on Monday, the former Governor of Anambra State reacted to the proposed bills and argued that meaningful reforms require inclusive public hearings where Nigerians from diverse backgrounds can contribute their perspectives.
He emphasised that such engagement fosters trust and ensures that policymaking reflects the broadest spectrum of public opinion.
While recognising the government’s interest in boosting revenue, he pointed out that tax reforms must also consider their broader impact on national development and regional sustainability.
He added that securing public buy-in through adequate sensitisation is crucial for the success of any 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 hearings 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.”
Credit: Nigerian Tribune