Senator Ndume Takes Stand Against VAT Increase, Urges Government To Spare The Underprivileged

Senator Ndume Takes Stand Against VAT Increase, Urges Government To Spare The UnderprivilegedSenator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has expressed strong opposition to the proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), urging the federal government to avoid adding financial burdens on Nigeria’s poor population.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The National Assembly is reportedly considering a bill to raise VAT from the current 7.5 percent to 10 percent by 2025, with plans to increase it further to 12.5 percent between 2026 and 2029.

In an appearance on Arise Television, Ndume emphasized that these tax hikes would disproportionately affect Nigeria’s struggling citizens, many of whom are already barely making ends meet. He urged the government to reconsider the VAT increases, warning that such measures could worsen the financial challenges faced by low-income households.

“We are on the verge of losing the middle class in Nigeria,” Ndume stated. “It’s becoming a divide between the haves and the have-nots. The middle class is being squeezed out. If Nigerians can afford to pay these taxes, then it might be acceptable, but under the current circumstances, raising taxes is not a viable option. I cannot support any tax increase.”

He further argued for prioritizing the improvement of living conditions, saying, “Let people start living, not just surviving. People should have extra income.”

Ndume highlighted the higher poverty rates in the north and stressed the need for consideration when imposing tax increases. “If taxes are to be raised, let’s target those who can afford it. Many who should be paying taxes are not doing so. I will begin campaigning against any tax hikes because this impacts not just northerners but all Nigerians. I’m not against taxation, but we shouldn’t burden those who are barely surviving. The tax authority should focus on those who are truly able to pay.

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