That new tax plan needs a serious delay, according to a civic group. The Osun Masterminds expressed worry about the starting date for the federal government's proposed tax reforms, asking President Bola Tinubu to push back the planned January kickoff. The group's leader, Professor Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, commended the work on the reforms but highlighted the nationwide controversy their timing has caused. He pointed to public confusion fueled by allegations that the signed policy document was later altered and by conflicting statements from the committee led by Taiwo Oyedele. The organization argued that citizens must buy into such a policy for it to succeed, calling for wider public discussions before any implementation begins.
Beyond taxes, the group addressed the ongoing economic strain across Nigeria. They urged both federal and state authorities to widen their relief programs to help people cope. They backed the legal action taken by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project against state governments concerning the use of funds saved from the fuel subsidy removal. Referencing claims from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission about governors misusing public welfare funds, the professor stated that cutting massive corruption and wasteful spending would free up money for development projects. He emphasized that transparency from state governments is essential for relieving economic pressure.
On the issue of fuel costs, the organization acknowledged a recent dip in prices, with petrol reportedly around seven hundred seventy naira per liter in some areas. While seeing this as a positive step, Oyedokun-Alli noted the price is still too high for ordinary Nigerians. He called on the federal government to keep working for a more substantial reduction, stating the president must not rest until pump prices stop making life miserable for common citizens.
Beyond taxes, the group addressed the ongoing economic strain across Nigeria. They urged both federal and state authorities to widen their relief programs to help people cope. They backed the legal action taken by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project against state governments concerning the use of funds saved from the fuel subsidy removal. Referencing claims from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission about governors misusing public welfare funds, the professor stated that cutting massive corruption and wasteful spending would free up money for development projects. He emphasized that transparency from state governments is essential for relieving economic pressure.
On the issue of fuel costs, the organization acknowledged a recent dip in prices, with petrol reportedly around seven hundred seventy naira per liter in some areas. While seeing this as a positive step, Oyedokun-Alli noted the price is still too high for ordinary Nigerians. He called on the federal government to keep working for a more substantial reduction, stating the president must not rest until pump prices stop making life miserable for common citizens.
