Connect with us

Politics

Lack of Understanding or Legitimate Concern? Otti’s Defence of Tinubu’s Tax Reform Sparks National Debate

Published

on

Lack of Understanding or Legitimate Concern? Otti’s Defence of Tinubu’s Tax Reform Sparks National Debate

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | SaharaWeeklyNG

“Abia Governor Alex Otti argues critics misunderstand the overhaul of Nigeria’s tax laws, but the controversy reveals deeper anxieties about governance, transparency and economic strain.”

When Abia State Governor Alex Otti publicly defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s newly enacted tax reform laws on February 13, 2026, he did more than just push back at critics, he threw the spotlight back on a fulcrum issue dividing Nigeria’s political and economic classes. Otti’s assertion that Nigerians attacking the tax policy “lack understanding” crystallises a broader fracture in public discourse over fiscal policy, governance and the future of the Nigerian economy.

The comments from Governor Otti came amid an intensifying national conversation over sweeping tax reforms signed into law in June 2025, designed to modernise Nigeria’s tax architecture and expand revenue mobilisation. These reforms (long in the making and championed by a Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee chaired by Prof. Taiwo Oyedele) mark the most far‑reaching overhaul of federal tax laws in decades. They include restructuring the Federal Inland Revenue Service into the National Revenue Service (NRS), establishing a Tax Appeal Tribunal and Ombudsman Office, and unifying revenue collection frameworks to improve transparency and efficiency.

Governor Otti’s praise for the new legislation resonated with elements of his own fiscal thinking. Drawing on economic positions he articulated nearly a decade ago, he argued that key principles now entrenched in the law reflect sound fiscal reasoning and long‑standing proposals to strengthen Nigeria’s economic foundations. “Almost 10 years ago, I wrote about the fiscal side of things,” Otti said. “When I read the new tax reform law, I saw many of those arguments reflected in it. I thank Prof. Oyedele. When people attack him, they don’t understand.”

Yet, while Otti’s intervention was meant to de‑escalate public criticism, it instead exposed how complex and emotionally charged the issue of taxation has become in Nigeria. Critics, both inside and outside government, argue that the reforms have not been adequately explained to citizens and that many fear the measures will aggravate hardship amid already high costs of living. One prominent voice of dissent, fiscal policy analyst Aborisade, warned that without transparency and clear communication on how tax revenues will be collected and returned to the people, “these reforms risk becoming deeply unpopular.” Critics also highlight that any tax increase implemented without demonstrable improvements in public services could fuel resentment and mistrust in governance.

That mistrust is not abstract. For years, Nigeria has struggled with weak tax compliance, low revenue‑to‑GDP ratios compared with other emerging economies, and public scepticism over how government revenues are utilised. Many Nigerians remember episodes where policy changes were not accompanied by visible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare or power delivery, reinforcing the belief among skeptics that new taxes equate to greater burden with little reward.

For supporters like Otti and others in government policy circles, the reforms represent a long‑overdue attempt to widen the tax net and reduce Nigeria’s chronic dependence on volatile oil revenues. Advocates argue that a modernised tax system can enhance domestic revenue mobilisation, reduce fiscal deficits, and create a more resilient economy. They point out that reforms provide exemptions and reliefs for low‑income earners and small businesses and are aimed at building a fairer, more transparent system for all stakeholders.

Still, bridging the gap between these competing narratives is challenging. Opposition voices contend that even well‑designed tax policy may fail if the state lacks the capacity to implement it equitably or if the public’s confidence in leadership remains weak. “Without accountability and clear benefits for their contributions, any tax reform risks becoming deeply unpopular,” Aborisade emphasised, warning that heavy taxation without trust can fracture the social contract.

The debate over Tinubu’s tax reform illustrates a deeper truth about contemporary Nigeria: that economic policy no longer exists in a vacuum but is deeply intertwined with public sentiment, political legitimacy, and social cohesion. As one respected economist put it, “Taxation is not just a fiscal tool, it is a trust‑building exercise between the state and its citizens.” When that trust is fragile, even technically sound reforms can be seen as punitive rather than constructive.

Analysts suggest that meaningful public engagement (including sustained information campaigns, transparent revenue utilisation reporting and constructive dialogue with civil society) is essential to soothe anxieties and build confidence in the new system. Without this, what began as an effort to stabilise public finances could widen political and social divides.

In defending the tax reforms, Governor Otti has framed the challenge as one of comprehension rather than critique. But the controversy unfolding across Nigeria is not simply about misunderstanding; it underscores a profound gap between policy design and public perception. For a reform of this magnitude to succeed, Nigerians must be assured not only of its economic merits, but also of its fairness, transparency and tangible impact on everyday lives.

As the implementation phase continues through 2026 and beyond, the Tinubu administration, state governments and economic stakeholders face the critical task of translating legislative change into broader public trust – a task as difficult as any technical reform the tax laws themselves seek to achieve.

 

Politics

Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship

Published

on

*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship* A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state. The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State. According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens. “Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read. Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process. The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State. “We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added. The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members. While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election. Signed: Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, Secretary.

*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship*

 

A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

 

The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State.

*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship* A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state. The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State. According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens. “Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read. Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process. The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State. “We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added. The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members. While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election. Signed: Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, Secretary.

According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens.

 

“Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read.

 

Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process.

 

The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State.

 

“We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added.

 

The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members.

 

While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election.

 

Signed:

 

Alh. Adebayo Oyewole,

Secretary.

Continue Reading

Politics

Atiku Set To Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket, Leads Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen In 34 States

Published

on

Atiku Set To Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket, Leads Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen In 34 States

Atiku Set To Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket, Leads Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen In 34 States

 

 

Former Vice President of Nigeria and frontline presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, is projected to emerge winner of the party’s presidential primaries, according to impeccable sources in Abuja.

The primaries, conducted across over 8,000 wards in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, reportedly placed Atiku far ahead of his closest rivals — former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

Atiku Set To Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket, Leads Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen In 34 States

Highly placed party insiders disclosed that Atiku is currently leading in 34 states, including the FCT, after securing dominance across the 19 Northern states, the five South-East states, and the six South-West states, while also maintaining a strong showing in at least three states in the South-South geopolitical zone.

The sources added that the outcome reflects what they described as “an overwhelming nationwide acceptance” of the former vice president within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Meanwhile, the ADC leadership has invited members of the press to the official announcement of the final collated results scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in Abuja.

The declaration of results is expected to be broadcast live on ARISE Television and two other major television stations, while also being livestreamed on the party’s official social media platforms on X and Facebook.

Speaking ahead of the announcement, the founding National Chairman of the ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, said the decision to televise the exercise live was aimed at promoting transparency and democratic accountability.

“We want millions of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora to witness democracy in action,” Nwosu said.

He further revealed that the party leadership would encourage all three presidential aspirants to publicly embrace a peace accord and commit themselves to working together in unity for the party’s success.

According to him, the move is necessary to strengthen internal cohesion and position the ADC for victory in the presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027.

Details later.

Continue Reading

Politics

Popular Journalist, Hon. Olushola Arike Ayekoto Emerges ADC Candidate for Alimosho Federal Constituency

Published

on

Popular Journalist, Hon. Olushola Arike Ayekoto Emerges ADC Candidate for Alimosho Federal Constituency

Popular Journalist, Hon. Olushola Arike Ayekoto Emerges ADC Candidate for Alimosho Federal Constituency

 

Joy and celebration filled the air for popular broadcaster and veteran journalist, Olushola Arike Ayekoto, after emerging as the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the House of Representatives seat representing Alimosho ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At the party’s primary election held last week, the prominent female politician defeated her co-contender, Hon. Mojeed Anjolaiya, by a wide margin to secure the party’s ticket.

Although several political developments and consultations had earlier taken place within the ADC concerning who would eventually fly the party’s flag for the federal constituency seat, the contest was finally decided at the primary election where Arike emerged victorious.

Speaking after the exercise, members of the ADC in Alimosho expressed confidence in her leadership ability and political experience, describing her as a capable and grassroots-oriented personality who possesses the qualities needed to effectively represent the people at the National Assembly in Abuja.

Party faithful also noted that her long-standing experience as a professional journalist and public commentator has positioned her as someone who understands the needs and challenges of the people.

Following her emergence, Hon. Arike Olushola expressed deep appreciation to the people of Alimosho for their support and confidence in her candidacy.

She also thanked party leaders, elders, and stakeholders within the ADC for giving her the opportunity to represent the party in the forthcoming election.

According to her, she would not disappoint the electorate and assured party members that their trust in her would be justified.

The ADC candidate further appealed to all members of the party to remain united and work together for the overall success of the party at all levels in the 2027 elections, including the presidential, governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives, and state assembly contests.

She expressed confidence that the ADC would record massive victories in 2027, declaring that the party is fully prepared to take over leadership from the ruling party.

 

Popular Journalist, Hon. Olushola Arike Ayekoto Emerges ADC Candidate for Alimosho Federal Constituency

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending