Call for suspension of new tax laws
As controversies over Nigeria’s new tax regime continue, President Bola Tinubu has been urged to suspend the implementation of the new tax laws and focus on job creation and improving living conditions for Nigerians.
The call was made by Chief Emeka Agba, founder and president of the Chief Emeka Agba Foundation, during an interview on Thursday.
Concerns over poverty and unemployment
Agba argued that a large proportion of Nigerians are poor, describing it as unfair to impose personal income tax in a country with widespread unemployment.
He said many Nigerians lack stable jobs and that the Tinubu administration should prioritise policies that create employment for the wider population.
Criticism of economic structure
According to Agba, Nigeria lacks adequate industries that can absorb labour and support sustainable economic growth.
He said without sufficient manufacturing and industrial activity, citizens would struggle to earn a living, limiting the country’s ability to grow economically.
Objection to foreign tax model
Agba also criticised the Federal Government’s reported partnership with France in designing and implementing the new tax laws.
He argued that applying a foreign tax model without considering Nigeria’s socio-economic realities could be counter-productive.
Comparison with oil-producing countries
The foundation president cited oil-producing countries such as Bahrain, Brunei, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, noting that they do not impose personal income tax on citizens despite having stronger social welfare systems.
He said such countries focus taxation on large corporate organisations and foreign companies rather than individuals.
Allegations of corruption and borrowing
Agba condemned the rising cost of living in Nigeria and accused successive governments of corruption and mismanagement of borrowed funds.
He alleged that large loans were taken without visible projects to justify the spending.
Call for tougher anti-corruption laws
He further called on the National Assembly to enact stricter laws against corruption, proposing severe penalties for looting of public funds.
Agba said firm action against corruption was necessary to restore public trust and improve governance.
