Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed cautious support for President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, while calling for transparency and public participation in the process.
In a statement shared on Twitter, Obi highlighted the importance of tax reforms, describing them as a “critical issue” that requires robust public debate.
He called for public hearings to ensure inclusivity and foster trust in the policymaking process.
“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,” he wrote.
Obi stressed that reforms of such magnitude should not be rushed, advocating for extensive deliberation to accommodate diverse perspectives.
He further argued that any policy changes should consider their overall impact on the nation, not just the potential for increased government revenue.
“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,” he added.
Obi also urged the government to prioritize sensitization and secure public buy-in for reforms, emphasizing that trust and legitimacy are the cornerstones of effective governance.
“Let us prioritize transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward. This is how we build a truly participatory democracy,” he concluded.
