OPEN LETTER: IHRC Calls for Urgent Reconsideration of Proposed Tax Reforms

To whom it may concern,

As the Country Director of the International Human Rights Commission-Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), Nigeria Chapter, a globally recognized organization with consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), I wish to draw attention to the potential adverse effects of the proposed tax reforms presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly.

These reforms, which aim to increase taxes on essential goods and restructure the allocation of generated revenues, pose serious threats to the economic stability and fundamental human rights of Nigerian citizens as enshrined in:

Articles 1, 3, and 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which guarantee the right to dignity, security, and an adequate standard of living.

Sections 16 and 17 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which emphasize social justice and equal opportunity.
Key Concerns Include:

1. Tax Increase on Essential Goods: The proposed hike from 7.5% to 10% by 2025 will disproportionately burden low-income households and exacerbate poverty.

2. Unequal Revenue Distribution: The allocation model unfairly favors a few states like Lagos and Ogun while marginalizing others, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

3. Impact on Education and Innovation: Provisions that undermine agencies like TETFUND and NITDA threaten Nigeria’s progress in higher education and technological advancement.

If enacted, these reforms will further entrench inequality, hinder economic growth, and deprive millions of Nigerians of basic opportunities for a better life.

As an ECOSOC-accredited body, we will not hesitate to escalate this matter to our global headquarters and leverage international platforms to protect the rights of Nigerians. We call on:

1. The President to reconsider these policies and prioritize the welfare of all Nigerians over revenue generation.
2. The National Assembly to thoroughly review and amend these proposals to ensure equity and fairness.
3. State Governors and Religious Leaders to advocate for the interests of their communities and educate the public on the potential impacts of these reforms.

This is a clarion call for collective action to uphold justice and equity. Failure to address these concerns will lead to widespread social and economic hardship. The IHRC-RFT remains committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all Nigerians.

Signed,
Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu (Rtd.)
Country Director, IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter.
+2347034471678.
ihrcnigeria12@gmail.com