Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a strong call for transparency and inclusiveness in the ongoing review of the proposed Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly. His remarks come in response to the National Economic Council's (NEC) recent recommendation to withdraw these contentious bills, which have sparked significant public debate regarding their potential impact on Nigeria's fiscal landscape.
In a statement released today, Atiku emphasized the urgent need for a fiscal system that embodies justice, fairness, and equity. He stated, “Nigerians are united in their call for a fiscal system that promotes justice, fairness, and equity. They have made it clear that the fiscal system we seek must not exacerbate the uneven development of the federating units by favoring a few states while unfairly penalizing others.”
Atiku's concerns center around the importance of conducting public hearings that are both objective and transparent. He urged lawmakers to ensure that these hearings facilitate open participation from all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and economic experts. “Transparency and objectivity are essential for promoting accountability, good governance, and public trust in policymaking,” he noted.
Furthermore, Atiku called upon the National Assembly to revisit and publicly disclose the resolutions of the NEC. He described the NEC as a vital advisory body with constitutional authority over Nigeria’s economic affairs. “The NASS must ensure that in the final analysis, the contents of the Bills align with the interests of the vast majority of Nigerians,” he added.
As discussions continue on significant changes proposed in these tax reforms—including an increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 7.5% to 10% by 2025—Atiku's advocacy for transparency reflects broader concerns about economic justice and equitable development across Nigeria’s diverse regions.