CISLAC Backs Tax Reforms, Urges Accountability, Transparency

The Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafsanjani has thrown his weight behind ongoing tax reforms in Nigeria, urging the government to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in their implementation.

Rafsanjani made the call in Abuja at the maiden Distinguished Parliamentarian Lecture organised by the House of Representatives Press Corps at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja with the theme “Navigating Tax Reform in Nigeria: Insights on President Tinubu’s Policies”.

He said the reforms, if properly implemented, would strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal position and ensure that taxes serve the interests of citizens rather than being diverted through loopholes and weak enforcement.

“Nigeria is losing a lot of revenue due to tax avoidance, evasion, and the failure of international corporations operating in our country to meet their obligations. In addition, we have seen a situation where multiple government agencies want to play the role of tax collectors, creating exploitation and dual taxation. A unified, transparent system is urgently needed,” he said.

He noted that women and vulnerable groups often bear the brunt of unfair tax practices, stressing that a fairer and more equitable regime would address such imbalances.

While commending the House of Representatives for initiating dialogue on the reforms, Rafsanjani urged the Senate to organise a similar engagement to deepen public awareness.

According to him, many Nigerians still lack adequate understanding of the provisions of the new tax laws, which makes sensitisation and education critical.

“It is not enough to legislate. We must ensure implementation in a manner that benefits the Nigerian people. The law must not be selective. The rich, the big men and women who have enjoyed government privileges, must also be taxed fairly. They must pay back to the Nigerian people and the Nigerian state,” he stressed.

Rafsanjani hailed the role of the press in provoking dialogue and promoting transparency, describing the lecture as timely and significant.

He, however, called on the government to intensify public engagement efforts to ensure widespread compliance and trust in the new system.

He also commended the leadership of the House of Representatives for what he described as visible progress in legislative activities, saying the initiatives reflect a clear commitment to accountability and reform.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji