By Peter Adelowo
The former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in the 2023 general election, Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, has cautioned against the introduction of additional taxes in the new year, warning that Nigerians are already overwhelmed by economic hardship and insecurity.
In his New Year message to Nigerians, Mr. Kachikwu said the beginning of a new year is traditionally a period of reflection, planning, and renewed hope, but lamented that many citizens now find it increasingly difficult to hold on to hope due to the worsening cost of living.
Quoting from the Bible, he said hope gives life, strength, and purpose, and prevents despair by assuring mankind that tomorrow can be better than today.
However, he noted that the combined impact of economic reforms and insecurity has made life more precarious for many Nigerians through no fault of theirs.
The former ADC presidential candidate described the current suffering of Nigerians as comparable to the biblical experience of the Israelites in Egypt under Pharaoh, raising concerns about whether the present leadership is sufficiently sensitive to the plight of the people.
He warned that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not want to be remembered as a leader whose policies triggered a mass exodus from the country.
Mr Kachikwu acknowledged that President Tinubu inherited a weak and struggling economy that required urgent intervention, but argued that the economic “surgery” being implemented has instead deepened hardship for ordinary Nigerians, who were meant to be the beneficiaries of the reforms.
He further expressed concern that tax reforms would disproportionately affect the middle class, who already bear heavy financial burdens due to inadequate public education, healthcare, and other social services.
According to him, additional taxation could further erode livelihoods and fuel social tension at a time when the country is grappling with serious security challenges.
While recognizing the need for reforms, Mr. Kachikwu stressed that an overburdened populace cannot afford more taxes, especially amid widespread perception that public revenues are not being effectively utilized.
He therefore called on the president to show care, compassion, and understanding by adopting people-centred policies that protect livelihoods and sustain hope, rather than measures that could worsen hardship in the new year.
Mr. Kachikwu concluded by wishing Nigerians a hopeful, peaceful, and prosperous New Year, while praying for God’s blessings on the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
