Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labor Party, criticized the decision of President Bola Tinubu to impose a 5% tax on all refined fuel sales.
Obi, in a position on Wednesday night, argued that this movement will further load the Nigerians who are already fighting with transport costs.
The opposition leader questioned the prioritization of income generation on citizens’ well -being, suggesting that excess income should finance education, medical care and poverty reduction.
Also read: Tinubu launches a personal income tax calculator under the new reform laws
He stressed that leadership should focus on reducing suffering and showing care and compassion, instead of imposing loads.
“When will Nigerians really breathe?
“The federal government has just announced a timely and relevant question, since the federal government has just announced a new 5% tax over all refined fossil fuel sales, including gasoline and diesel.
“That is, Nigerians will pay a 5% tax when buying their daily fuel or diesel at a time when millions can barely allow the cost of transport.
“Mr. President boasted that Nigeria has fulfilled its income goal for the year. However, instead of relieving difficulties, the Government imposes more loading the Nigerians.
“Even the so -called alternative, CNC, has become inaccessible, increasing from approximately ₦ 230 to ₦ 450, while the promised subsidies in the CNG have disappeared silently.
“If our income is really ‘excessive’ as stated, shouldn’t they be used first to finance education, medical care and get Nigerians out of poverty? Why are serious citizens who can’t even breathe more?
“This 5% of the fuel tax must wait until the Nigerians begin to see tangible improvements in their lives of all the promises of Mr. President.
“Leadership is not about taking a burden, it is about reducing suffering, it is care and compassion,” he wrote.
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