Obi Urges Caution on Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills, Says “They Should Not Be Rushed”

Former governor and political leader Peter Obi has called for a cautious and inclusive approach to the tax reform bills recently introduced to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu. Speaking through a statement on his X account on Monday, Mr. Obi underscored the importance of transparency and public trust in the legislative process.

While acknowledging the necessity of tax reform, Obi emphasized that such measures should undergo extensive public debate to ensure they are well-informed and widely accepted. He highlighted the value of public hearings, suggesting they provide a platform for Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to engage with the proposed reforms.

“Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it,” Mr. Obi said. “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.”

The National Assembly passed the bills through their second reading last week, but the decision has faced significant criticism. Many Nigerians accused lawmakers of rushing the process without sufficient public consultation.

Mr. Obi warned against hasty legislative action, advocating instead for a careful and deliberate approach. “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,” he said.

The former governor also stressed the need to balance government revenue generation goals with the overall impact on the nation and its regions. “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.

In conclusion, Mr. Obi reiterated the central role of transparency and public engagement in ensuring the success of policy reforms. “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.”