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A new debate has risen in Nigeria, and it is shaking many homes, offices, and public spaces. The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has openly disagreed with President Bola Tinubu’s tax reforms. He insists that a government must first create wealth and improve the lives of citizens before asking them to pay taxes. His words came through a viral video that spread quickly on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, and since then, Nigerians everywhere have been reacting. Read Our Last Post: Woman Found Hanging From a Tree Beside Her Dead Child, Boyfriend Arrested in Heartbreaking Case
In the video, Governor Otti explained in very simple terms what taxation should mean. He said taxation should never feel like a punishment or a burden on the people. Instead, he described it as the government’s fair share of the prosperity it has created for its citizens. He stressed that when people see development, when they see their lives getting better, they are more willing to pay taxes.
“I believe that taxation is government’s share of the prosperity it has created amongst the populace,” Governor Otti said firmly. “As a government, you must first give to your people before asking for something in return. We believe the government needs to give first before asking.”
These words have struck the hearts of many Nigerians. Some see them as a clear truth that leaders should pay attention to. Others see them as a challenge to the policies of President Bola Tinubu, who has been pushing for stronger tax reforms as part of his economic plan.
Abia’s Example Under Otti
Governor Otti also gave details about how Abia State has been running under his leadership. He revealed that despite giving tax holidays to some people and not using force to collect internally generated revenue, Abia State still managed to exceed its revenue target.
“Our target for 2025 was ₦32 billion,” he said. “We surpassed it by ₦7 million. This was achieved even though we gave tax holidays and refused to use aggressive methods in collecting internally generated revenue. This is simply because of my strong belief that taxation is the government’s share of the prosperity created among the populace.”
For Governor Otti, this achievement is proof that people are more willing to pay taxes when they see evidence of good governance. He believes his administration’s calm and people-focused style encouraged citizens to contribute without fear.
Heated Debate Among Nigerians
Since the video went viral, it has been a hot topic of discussion across Nigeria. Some citizens are praising Governor Otti for speaking boldly about what many people feel. They argue that life has been very hard since the removal of fuel subsidy and the rise in the cost of living. For them, taxation without visible improvement in their daily lives feels like adding more pain to their suffering.
On the other hand, supporters of President Tinubu believe that strong taxation is necessary for the country to stand on its own. They argue that Nigeria cannot depend on oil revenue alone, and that every citizen has a duty to contribute to nation-building through taxes.
Still, many Nigerians feel caught in the middle. They ask simple but serious questions: If the government is collecting more money from us, why are schools still poor? Why are hospitals still lacking drugs? Why are roads still filled with potholes? These questions reflect the everyday pain of ordinary Nigerians.
Call for Responsible Leadership
Governor Otti’s message has gone beyond Abia State. It is now a national call for leaders at all levels to rethink their approach. His words suggest that government must first build trust by improving lives, creating jobs, and providing basic needs. Only then will people willingly part with their money in the name of taxes.
For many Nigerians, this debate is not just about figures or policies. It is about survival. It is about being able to eat, send children to school, and have hope for a better future. Taxation, they believe, must be tied to visible progress.
What Next?
As Nigerians wait to see how the federal government will respond to Governor Otti’s remarks, one thing is clear: this conversation has touched the hearts of millions. It has reminded leaders that taxes are not just numbers on paper. They are the sweat of citizens, the bread of families, and the little savings of workers.
Governor Otti’s words may have started as a short video online, but they have grown into a strong reminder that governance is about giving before taking. As the debate continues, Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether these words will lead to real change or be lost in the noise of politics.
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