Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, has called for a comprehensive approach to tax reform in Nigeria.
Emphasising the importance of public involvement, Obi stressed the need for extensive discussions to shape policies that genuinely reflect the people’s interests.
“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,” he said in a statement on Monday.
Obi pointed out that holding public hearings on tax reform would allow Nigerians from various backgrounds to participate actively, fostering trust and inclusivity in the decision-making process.
He warned against rushing decisions on matters as important as tax reform.
“Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration,” Obi noted, underlining the need for diverse opinions to be heard and incorporated into public policy.
The former presidential aspirant also highlighted the importance of balancing the government’s revenue goals with the broader impact on citizens and the country’s regions. He stated that policies should not be assessed solely by the revenue they generate for the government but also by their overall effects on the nation’s development and sustainability.
“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.
To gain public support for any proposed reforms, Obi urged the government to educate and engage with the people.
“Furthermore, the government must sensitise the people and secure their buy-in for any policy changes,” he said.
He explained that trust and legitimacy are the cornerstones of successful governance, cautioning that even well-intentioned reforms could fail without public backing.
“Let us prioritise transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward,” he concluded, reiterating his belief in building a more inclusive and participatory democracy,” Obi said.
