Tijjani Usman MuhammadThe National Opposition Movement (NOM) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to halt the implementation of the new tax regime scheduled to take effect in January 2026, warning that the policy could deepen the country’s socio-economic crisis. The appeal was made on Wednesday in Abuja at a press briefing held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre.
Addressing journalists, NOM spokesperson Hon. Chille Igbawua said the proposed tax reforms — which would require all adults of taxable age, including those unemployed, to file tax returns by March 31, 2026 — are ill-timed and punitive, especially in a country grappling with high unemployment, rising poverty, food insecurity, and weak public services.
The movement, which comprises opposition politicians, civil society groups and allied organisations, described the new tax laws as an “exploitative racket” that could further burden ordinary Nigerians rather than ease the country’s financial pressures. It insists that filing obligations should not apply to individuals without adequate income and that business owners should not be compelled to declare employees earning below taxable thresholds amid difficult economic conditions.
NOM also raised concerns about transparency and accountability, criticizing alleged undisclosed agreements between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and foreign tax agencies, and arguing that citizens should not face higher taxes without corresponding improvements in healthcare, education, security and job creation.
As part of its demands, the opposition group wants the government to suspend the tax policy’s rollout immediately and initiate nationwide consultations involving labour unions, civil society, professionals, small businesses and state governments before the reforms are implemented. It also called for social protection guarantees, stronger legal safeguards for taxpayers, and a focus on taxing luxury goods, excess profits and monopolies instead of low-income earners.
NOM warned that pushing through the tax plan without broad stakeholder engagement could trigger serious social and economic consequences, arguing that Nigeria is already under severe economic strain and cannot sustain further financial pressure on its citizens.
