By Gabriella Ogbu

On Monday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and other stakeholders emphasized the need for broader consultations among relevant parties to address concerns over the tax bills currently before the National Assembly.

PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, and Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, questioned the urgency with which President Bola Tinubu is pushing for the passage of these bills.

For over two weeks, the proposed tax reforms have sparked widespread debate, particularly among northern lawmakers who have expressed strong opposition.

After receiving approval from the Federal Executive Council in October, President Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.

The Federal Government claims these reforms aim to modernize the nation’s tax system by consolidating existing laws, improving administrative frameworks, and establishing bodies like the Tax Appeal Tribunal and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman.

In an interview, Abdullahi highlighted the significant implications of these reforms and emphasized the need to prioritize the collective interest of citizens.

He stated, “My position aligns with the majority of Nigerians. If even governors and other elite members of society are apprehensive, it indicates the need for a broader review of these proposals.

The government must understand the far-reaching consequences of these reforms and ensure that governors, who are well-placed to assess the implications, are actively involved.”

Abdullahi also questioned why the government is prioritizing these bills amidst the country’s current economic struggles.

He added, “This should not be the focus right now. Nigerians are grappling with severe economic challenges, including inflation, the floating of the naira, subsidy removal, and numerous taxes introduced over the past year.

Rushing these reforms does not serve the nation’s best interest. If there are no ulterior motives, why the haste? Nigerians need more time to thoroughly review these decisions and evaluate their impact.

Genuine reforms that serve the public good will naturally gain acceptance. However, the speed at which this government is pushing the process raises questions about its intentions.”

Osadolor also acknowledged the potential benefits of tax reform but urged the Federal Government to slow down the process to ensure inclusivity and public buy-in.

He remarked, “Tax reform is a positive step, but democracy requires everyone’s participation, not a dictatorial approach. If there is strong public demand for more clarity and understanding, there is no reason to rush. Even in the past, without these reforms, the country managed to move forward.”

He emphasized that a short delay to allow for consultations and public engagement would not harm the reform process but could help prevent unnecessary friction.

“Waiting a few weeks or even months to explain these proposals and gather feedback would not derail the process. Proper communication and collaboration are essential to avoid unnecessary conflict. While the idea of reform is welcome, there are clauses that people find troubling. Greater consultation, public hearings, and engagement with the states could have mitigated much of the current tension and backlash,” Osadolor concluded.

The stakeholders called on the government to adopt a more deliberative and inclusive approach, ensuring that the proposed reforms are well-understood, broadly accepted, and in the best interest of Nigerians.