Kehinde Fajobi
The Presidency has dismissed claims that the proposed Tax Reform Bills will disproportionately benefit Lagos and Rivers States while impoverishing northern Nigeria.
In a statement on Monday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, described such claims as “reckless” and lacking basis.
“The tax reform bills will not make Lagos or Rivers more affluent and other parts of the country poorer, as recklessly canvassed,” the statement read.
“The bills will not destroy the economy of any section of the country. Instead, they aim to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians, especially the disadvantaged, who are trying to make a living.”
Onanuga criticised certain political actors and commentators for distorting facts about the bills, accusing them of misleading the public and stirring unnecessary division.
“Since the public debate around the transformative tax bills before the National Assembly began in the last few weeks, various political actors and commentators have tried to obfuscate the facts, deliberately misinforming and misleading the public,” he said.
“Unfortunately, most reactions are not grounded in facts, reality, or sufficient knowledge of the bills.
“While some commentators have attempted to incite the people against lawmakers, others have polarised one section of the country against another.”
The Presidency reaffirmed its commitment to equitable reforms, stating that the bills aim to improve living standards across Nigeria, particularly for disadvantaged citizens working to earn a livelihood.