Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has dismissed fears that the new tax reform framework could be used by the Federal Government to marginalise political opposition or target individuals on the basis of political affiliation, insisting that the reforms are driven by national interest and institutional accountability.
Adedeji spoke during an interview on the Arise TV programme, ThisDay Live, where he responded to concerns that the new tax regime might be weaponised through selective enforcement or politically motivated scrutiny of tax compliance records.
He noted that such insinuations were misdirected, stressing that the administration’s approach to tax reform is guided by transparency, due process and a commitment to building strong and credible institutions.
Addressing a question on whether the reforms could be used to suppress opposition voices, Adedeji said:“I think the question you will ask is that we need to commend the courage of Mr. President, that despite the fact that there is an election coming, he is courageous enough to continue on this path of statesmanship, not of that of politicians.”
He explained that it would have been easier politically for the government to avoid far-reaching fiscal and institutional reforms ahead of an election cycle but the President chose to continue with measures aimed at strengthening the country’s fiscal foundation and improving economic governance.
According to him, the tax reform agenda is focused on correcting structural weaknesses in the tax system, improving fairness, and creating a simplified and predictable compliance environment that encourages voluntary participation rather than fear or coercion.
Adedeji said the scepticism expressed in some quarters is influenced by Nigeria’s historical concerns about how public institutions have previously been perceived but maintained that the new framework is being designed to reduce discretion in tax administration and ensure that processes are rule-based.
He stated that the NRS is working to institutionalise systems that promote accountability, automation and stronger governance safeguards, so that tax administration is guided by law rather than individual judgment or political influence.
The NRS Chairman added that the reform journey places strong emphasis on trust between government and taxpayers, noting that confidence grows when citizens are assured that tax policies are not shaped by partisan considerations.
He said the administration’s approach is centered on expanding opportunities for growth, strengthening public finances in a sustainable manner and creating a system where citizens can clearly see the relationship between taxes paid and improvements in public services.
Adedeji reiterated that while tax reform often attracts political commentary, the overriding objective remains the stability of the economy and the development of credible institutions capable of supporting long-term national progress.
He said the ongoing implementation process will continue through structured phases, with the ultimate goal of building a tax environment that supports investment, protects vulnerable groups and strengthens confidence in public administration, while insulating tax processes from political interference.
Source; The Nation News