Tax Reform Is A Critical Issue, Nothing Wrong With Pursuing It –Peter Obi

By Daniel Dafe

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has said that tax reform is a critical issue, adding that nothing is wrong with pursuing it.

Recall that the proposed Tax Reform Bill by the President Bola Tinubu administration has generated several reactions from.different sections of the country.

Obi in a statement on Monday added that such reform “must be subject to robust and informed public debate.”

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“A public hearing on tax reform is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully,” saying that this is how public trust can be built and as well ensure inclusivity in policy making,” he averred.

He continued: “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.”

According to him, “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.”

He said: “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 opined.