The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi, has called for robust public engagement and transparency in the ongoing discussions about tax reform in Nigeria.
In a statement posted to the public, Obi emphasised the critical need for a participatory approach to policymaking, particularly for reforms of this magnitude.
“Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it,” Obi stated. “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 former governor of Anambra State said.
Obi argued that matters as impactful as tax reform require extensive deliberation and must not be rushed.
Public hearings, he added, would provide a platform for diverse opinions and enable the broadest spectrum of public input to shape government policies.
He further stressed that while revenue generation is important, policymakers must also consider the overall impact of reforms on the nation and the sustainability of its regions.
“It is insufficient to focus solely on the benefits to the government. We must also take into account the overall impact on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions,” he noted.
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Obi underscored the importance of trust and legitimacy in governance, highlighting that even well-intentioned reforms might fail without public buy-in and adequate sensitization.
“Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail,” he warned.
Obi called for prioritising transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in Nigeria’s policy journey. “This is how we build a truly participatory democracy. A new Nigeria is possible!”
