Kehinde Fajobi
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has called on the Federal Government to avoid burdening poor Nigerians with additional taxes, stressing that the wealthy and corporations should instead be the focus of tax reform.
Speaking on ARISE Television’s Prime Time show, Ndume voiced his opposition to the tax reform bills under consideration in the National Assembly.
“We are almost losing the middle class in Nigeria. It is either you have it or you do not have it. Those that are in the middle are being squeezed out,” Ndume explained.
He emphasised that the current economic situation made tax increases unfeasible.
“If Nigerians can pay for those taxes, it is okay. But in the current situation, increasing taxes is not an alternative at all. I will not support any increase in taxes.”
The senator noted the severe poverty levels, particularly in northern Nigeria, and stressed the need to target those more financially capable.
“Let us get things right first. Let people start living and not surviving. Let people have extra income,” he said.
“The North has more poverty, so if you want to increase taxes again, let’s be considerate. Tax those people who can afford it. Those who can afford the taxes in Nigeria are not even paying for them.”
Ndume also announced his intention to campaign against any increase in taxes affecting average Nigerians.
“It doesn’t only affect the northerners; it affects the average Nigerian,” he added.
“I’m not saying people should not pay tax, but don’t tax people that are barely surviving. Let the tax authority concentrate on those that are supposed to pay tax,” Ndume concluded.