Dr Ibrahim Osinowo, a former Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor, has launched a strong critique against the new tax reform policy introduced by President Bola Tinubu's administration.
Former Adviser Condemns Policy in Abeokuta
Osinowo voiced his opposition during a courtesy visit to the State Executive of the African Democratic Party (ADC) in Abeokuta on Friday, 10 January 2026. The meeting took place at the party's Secretariat in the Itoko area of the Ogun State capital, where he was received by the party's Chairman, Otunba Femi Soluade.
The ex-adviser did not mince words, describing the federal government's tax initiative as an "anti-people policy." He argued that the reform is a deliberate move to worsen the economic suffering Nigerians are already enduring due to the removal of the fuel subsidy.
Questioning the Use of Public Funds
Osinowo raised critical questions about the management of public revenue. He expressed bewilderment over how state and federal governments are utilising the substantial funds shared through the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).
He warned that imposing additional taxes would have severe consequences. According to him, the policy will further escalate the already skyrocketing inflation, cause prices of goods and services to rise even more, and deepen the hunger crisis in the country.
A Direct Challenge to the Government
In his direct remarks, Osinowo stated, "Absolutely, the tax reforms are anti-Nigeria; Nigerians do not find them comfortable in terms of daily lives, income and the rest of it." He questioned the rationale behind the policy, especially at a time when many citizens are struggling to survive on meagre incomes.
"I am wondering what the APC-led administration is doing with the humongous revenue accumulated to the state and the national governments from subsidy removal," he added. "So why bring up a tax reform where ordinary Nigerians could not live with more than N100,000 a month? What is the benefit of the tax?"
Osinowo demanded accountability, directing pointed questions at state governors: "What are they using the increased FAAC for?" He declared that these issues would be central to the ADC's campaign messaging in the forthcoming political season.
He concluded by reaffirming his stance, saying, "The tax reform is anti-people and is not a good policy for Nigerians that are going through hardship for now." His criticism adds to the growing public debate on the government's economic strategies and their impact on the populace.
