Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has called on the National Assembly to involve Nigerians in discussions around tax reform.
He emphasized that the reform process should not be designed to solely benefit the government.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Obi acknowledged the importance of tax reform, describing it as a significant and necessary initiative.
However, he stressed the need for transparency and public participation in the process.
“Tax reform is crucial, and there’s nothing wrong with pursuing it,” the former Anambra State Governor stated.
“But the public must have the opportunity to contribute through meaningful discussions.”
Obi advocated for a public hearing to ensure that Nigerians from diverse backgrounds are included in the decision-making process.
“This approach fosters public trust and inclusivity in policymaking,” he noted.
He further cautioned against focusing solely on increasing government revenue without considering the broader implications of such reforms.
“It’s essential to evaluate the overall impact on the country and the sustainability of all regions,” Obi said.
He concluded by highlighting the importance of trust and legitimacy in governance, warning that even well-intentioned reforms could fail without these critical elements.