Tax Law Won’t Burden Nigerians

By Akeem oduyoye

The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has said the newly enacted tax laws were not designed to cause hardship for Nigerians, insisting that the reforms are meant to improve the country’s economy and protect ordinary citizens.

He explained that the tax legislation was introduced to strengthen government revenue, end multiple taxation and improve living standards, especially for low-income earners, contrary to claims by critics.

Bamidele made the clarification in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, following growing public debate over the new tax regime. He said the intention of the law had been wrongly portrayed in public discussions. “The new tax law was not initiated to inflict economic hardship on ordinary Nigerians,” he said.

According to him, the National Assembly worked with other arms of government during the reform process while maintaining its independence. He noted that the legislature achieved key milestones in 2025, including tax reforms, constitutional review efforts and changes aimed at improving the electoral system.

He described the 2025 Tax Reforms Act as the most important of the reforms, stating that it would create a unified tax system and bring an end to multiple taxation from January 1, 2026. “The goal is to ensure a better life for Nigerians, particularly those at the lowest level of the economy,” he added.

The Senate Leader said the law was passed after wide consultations with stakeholders across business, political and social sectors, stressing that it does not reflect the negative picture painted by the opposition. He urged Nigerians to study the provisions of the law and avoid being misled by misinformation.

Bamidele also dismissed claims that the National Assembly merely approves executive decisions, reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to checks and balances and people-focused governance.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has restated that the implementation of the new tax laws will continue as scheduled, describing the reforms as a major opportunity to build a fair and modern tax system. He said the laws were not meant to increase taxes but to reset the system, promote fairness and strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal foundation.

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