The National Assembly has been urged to review the new tax law by the Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society, CEHRAWS, amid concerns it could exacerbate economic hardship for Nigerians. This call comes after President Bola Tinubu stated that the implementation of the new tax law would proceed as planned.
CEHRAWS Executive Director, Chuka Peter Okoye, warned that the law’s stringent provisions could lead to widespread job losses and the collapse of small businesses if not revised. The group, which promotes good governance and economic fairness, disputed the government’s claim that the new tax laws would benefit low-income earners and vulnerable individuals.
According to CEHRAWS, the new tax law may increase the financial burden on households and small businesses, particularly those with limited safeguards in place. The organization emphasized that taxation should be designed to promote equity, rather than widen the gap between the rich and the poor. Okoye stated that meaningful reform requires citizen engagement, strengthened accountability, and alignment of revenue policies with economic realities.
The group cautioned that poorly designed fiscal measures could erode public confidence and undermine social cohesion. Beyond taxation, CEHRAWS called for renewed attention to the rule of law, accountable policing, and the protection of livelihoods across all tiers of government.
The implementation of the new tax law has sparked concerns among Nigerians, who are already grappling with rising living costs and job insecurity. The government’s decision to proceed with the law has been met with criticism from various stakeholders, who argue that it could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s economy and social stability.
As the National Assembly considers the review of the new tax law, it is essential to prioritize the needs and concerns of Nigerian citizens. The government must ensure that any fiscal measures are designed to promote economic growth, reduce inequality, and protect the most vulnerable members of society. The outcome of this review will be closely watched, as it has significant implications for the country’s economic and social development.