A United Kingdom-based human rights lawyer and political analyst, Niyi Aborisade, has warned that Nigerians are unlikely to accept new tax measures unless the federal government provides clear and transparent explanations of how the funds will be used.
In an interview with newsmen in Ibadan yesterday, Aborisade described the current economic climate in Nigeria as “a perfect storm” for public dissatisfaction.
“Taxation is a normal and necessary part of governance worldwide. But in Nigeria, trust is fundamental. Citizens cannot be expected to surrender 25 per cent of their income to a government that has mismanaged oil revenues, wasted public funds, and failed to explain how resources are being deployed”, he said.
The lawyer highlighted recent policy decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the sharp rise in petrol prices, from about ₦125 to nearly ₦859 per litre, as examples of actions that have increased hardship for ordinary Nigerians, reports Daily Independent.
“Yet there has been no clear communication on how these new tax revenues will be collected or how they will directly benefit the people,” he said, adding that: “Without transparency and accountability, these reforms risk becoming deeply unpopular.”
Aborisade also stressed the broader economic challenges facing the country, including high inflation, a weakening naira, collapsing infrastructure, and widespread poverty.
“Introducing new taxes under these conditions, without proper consultation or explanation, is a recipe for public anger and potential unrest,” he warned.
He urged government officials to engage actively with citizens and civil society organisations to explain the rationale behind the tax measures.
Fiscal discipline, he emphasised, must accompany any increase in tax obligations.
“Until Nigerians see responsible governance, imposing new taxes will remain unjustifiable,” he said.
Aborisade further reminded the government that democratic accountability is non-negotiable.
“The people will decide the future , and no amount of power or money can permanently silence them,” he stated, warning that attempts to manipulate elections or ignore public sentiment could provoke significant backlash.
His warning comes as Nigerians grapple with rising living costs, dwindling purchasing power, and inadequate public services. Analysts say failure to communicate tax plans clearly could fuel social tension, erode trust in government, and weaken credibility ahead of upcoming elections.
“The government must not assume that citizens will automatically comply,” Aborisade said.
“People are tired of empty promises and reckless spending. They want transparency, accountability, and clear benefits for their contributions. Without these, any tax reform risks becoming deeply unpopular and may even trigger widespread public opposition.”
