he current state of affairs in Nigeria has left many citizens feeling like they’re bearing the brunt of the government’s harsh policies. While politicians, trade union leaders, and their affiliates seem to be enjoying the spoils, the rest of us are struggling to keep up. Take, for instance, the recent tax laws that have been passed. Many are up in arms, and rightly so.
It’s striking how the trade unions, who are supposed to be fighting for the welfare of workers and the poor, seem to be holding back. Pensioners are dying without receiving their gratuities, and workers are being shortchanged by government agencies and private establishments. It’s only when their personal interests are at stake that they spring into action. Unionism should be about finding mutually beneficial solutions, not just about strikes and threats.
The lack of foresight from our labour leaders is also concerning. While patriotic citizens like Blakey Ijezie were sounding the alarm on the impending tax laws, our union leaders were nowhere to be found. As early as November 2023, Ijezie was warning about the potential consequences of these laws, but it seems no one was listening. Now that the laws have been passed, we’re seeing hidden taxes popping up everywhere, causing problems and inconveniences for the people.
The issue here is trust. The government needs to demonstrate its capacity to meet its responsibilities and provide infrastructure that supports businesses and citizens. If people feel like they’re being taken advantage of, they’ll be less likely to comply with the tax laws. The trade unions have already given notice that they’ll go on strike if certain provisions are implemented, and various sectors are raising concerns about the impact on their businesses.
One of the most pressing concerns is the withholding tax provision, which requires companies to deduct taxes from suppliers and service providers. For small businesses like mechanics and welders, this could be a nightmare. They’re expected to render tax returns on transactions, but many don’t have the necessary bookkeeping records. It’s a complex situation that the government will have to navigate carefully.
The question on everyone’s mind is: have the government and policymakers done enough to ensure that these tax laws are fair, just, and equitable? Have they considered the unintended consequences of these laws on the most vulnerable members of society? The recent increase in revenue is a welcome development, but what has been done with it? Are the people benefiting from it?
As the implementation of the tax laws approaches, it’s crucial that the government takes a step back and assesses the potential impact. If not handled properly, these laws could plunge the people into further anguish. It’s time for Nigerians to start enjoying the benefits of their hard work and patience. The government must ensure that the tax laws are implemented in a way that promotes economic growth, fairness, and justice for all.
