Tax Reforms Protect the Vulnerable, Targets the Wealthy, Says Lagos Rep

Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, the representative for Kosofe Federal Constituency, has moved to dispel public anxiety surrounding Nigeria’s new tax reform laws. Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Ogbara clarified that the legislation is far from "anti-poor," asserting instead that the reforms are a strategic tool to redistribute wealth and fund essential infrastructure that benefits the lowest earners in society.

The lawmaker explained that the primary intent of the policy is to ensure that affluent individuals and high-earning corporations contribute their fair share to the national purse. By shifting the tax burden away from small businesses and low-income earners, the government aims to create a more equitable fiscal environment. Ogbara noted that under the new laws, a vast majority of small businesses would actually see their corporate tax obligations drop to zero.

Echoing the sentiments of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Ogbara highlighted that the reforms are designed to eliminate "nuisance levies" that often plague everyday citizens. She emphasized that the House of Representatives would maintain strict oversight of the implementation process. This monitoring is intended to prevent any administrative overreach that could negatively impact the poor.

​“No nation can survive without its citizens giving back,” Ogbara stated, framing tax compliance as a form of national service. She argued that the revenue generated from the wealthy would be directly funneled into healthcare, education, and road projects in constituencies like Kosofe, Ikosi-Isheri, and Agboyi-Ketu. This link between taxation and visible development is central to the government’s argument for the bill.

The press conference also served as a platform to announce an upcoming empowerment programme scheduled for January 25. Ogbara used this to demonstrate her commitment to her constituents, promising that the benefits of government policy would be felt directly at the grassroots level. She urged Nigerians to ignore "misrepresentations" of the law and look forward to the long-term economic stability it promises to bring.