A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has observed that many Nigerians do not adequately understand the newly introduced tax laws and are therefore presenting them inaccurately.
Oyintiloye, who previously served as a legislator, made this remark during an interaction with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo.
He explained that poor comprehension of the new tax regulations has resulted in wrong assumptions, misinterpretation, and distrust of the government’s motives, stressing the need for extensive and continuous public enlightenment on the law.
According to him, the circulation of incorrect information about the tax law has caused confusion among many Nigerians, including those who are well educated, particularly regarding the timing and method of taxing their income.
He further noted that claims of inconsistencies between the version of the bill approved by the National Assembly and the one published in the official gazette have worsened the misunderstanding.
Oyintiloye maintained that the government’s objective behind the new tax law, especially concerning low-income earners, is genuine, but misinformation and uncertainty surrounding its execution are undermining its true purpose.
“Many Nigerians are still ignorant of the new tax law. Social media is filled with different explanations of the law, leading to widespread confusion among the people.
“The misinformation about the tax law is spreading faster than the true intentions of the law and its benefits.
“As of now, many Nigerians, both literate and illiterate, do not actually know what to believe about the tax law,” he added.
He attributed the prevailing confusion to inadequate sensitisation efforts and insufficient public engagement before the law was rolled out, urging agencies tasked with public information to act more decisively.
“I want to implore the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Federal Ministry of Information, and other relevant government agencies to step up their public awareness campaigns, especially on the tax reform law.
“This is important and necessary to enable people to understand the good intentions of the government, particularly towards low-income earners, and to curb the spread of misinformation. Many people still do not know what the law entails or how it will apply to them,” he said.
The APC stalwart also remarked that the economic reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu are beginning to produce positive outcomes, adding that relevant agencies should effectively present and communicate these achievements to Nigerians.
