Former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, has cautioned the Federal Government against introducing additional taxes in the new year, warning that further tax reforms could worsen the economic hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
In a New Year message to the nation he signed himself on Wednesday, Kachikwu said Nigerians were entering the year with diminishing hope as rising living costs, insecurity and economic reforms continue to strain households. He argued that government policies, particularly proposed tax reforms, risk deepening poverty and shrinking the already fragile middle class.
“At this special time of the year, Nigerians should be planning with hope,” Kachikwu said, “but today, many of our brothers and sisters find it increasingly difficult to clutch at the straw of hope.”
He likened the suffering of Nigerians to the biblical account of the Israelites in Egypt, suggesting that history would judge President Bola Tinubu harshly if current policies trigger mass emigration and social unrest.
While acknowledging that the President inherited a weak economy that required urgent intervention, Kachikwu said the impact of reforms has been devastating for ordinary citizens.
“The surgery meant to revive the economy has now decapitated the legs and arms of Nigerians who are supposed to be the beneficiaries,” he stated.
Kachikwu warned that proposed tax reforms would further burden citizens who already pay heavily for private education, healthcare and basic services due to the failure of public institutions. He also accused powerful interests of benefiting disproportionately from government policies.
“We understand the need for tax reforms, but an already overburdened populace can’t afford any more taxation,” he said, adding that many Nigerians no longer trust the government to use tax revenues responsibly.
The former ADC flagbearer cautioned that implementing the reforms as planned could spark a national crisis, especially amid ongoing security challenges. He urged the President to prioritize compassion and support for struggling Nigerians rather than policies that could worsen their hardship.
Despite his criticism, Kachikwu said he had previously supported some of President Tinubu’s initiatives and would still back him over what he described as “failed politicians masquerading as the Opposition.” However, he made it clear that he opposes any reform that undermines the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.
“He can’t champion a ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ while cutting short the hopes of Nigerians,” Kachikwu said.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians a hopeful and prosperous new year, calling on leaders to ensure that hope remains alive in 2026.
Key Quotes:
“We can’t start the year with more taxes.”
“Hope gives life, strength and purpose, but today many Nigerians are struggling to hold on to it.”
“The surgery meant to fix the economy has ended up hurting the very people it was meant to help.”
“An overburdened populace can’t afford any more taxation.”
“You cannot preach renewed hope while destroying the hopes of the people.”
