The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has endorsed the controversial tax reforms bills by President Bola Tinubu.
The four tax reform bills proposed by Tinubu are stoking anger in Northern Nigeria, with groups in the region demanding the suspension of passage of the legislation.
Political leaders and power brokers in the region have continued to mount pressure on President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to drop the proposed bills.
The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum recently stated that if the tax bills are passed into law, only Lagos and Rivers state will benefit.
But the presidency explained that Tinubu proposed the reforms due to a need to streamline tax administration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses.
It stated that the bills will not imprevish the northern region as its being claimed.
In a statement via X on Monday, Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, stated that there is nothing wrong with pursuing the tax reform bills, noting that its critical
However, Peter Obi asserted that a public hearing on tax reform is essential for Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully.
According to Obi, the federal government must sensitize the masses and secure their buy-in for 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 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.”
