Labour Slams Akpabio Over Claim That Only 30% of Nigerians Pay Taxes

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has faced criticism from labour unions and employer associations after comments he made regarding the country’s tax system.

Speaking at a two-day public hearing on tax reforms in Abuja, Akpabio stated that only 30% of Nigerians pay taxes, yet many demand more from the government. He described tax reforms as vital to Nigeria’s future and stressed that they must be implemented correctly.

However, his statement drew swift responses from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), who argued that tax evasion is widespread due to a lack of government accountability. The groups stated that Nigerians are less likely to pay taxes when they feel that public funds are not being used efficiently or transparently.

The NLC, TUC, and NECA called for greater government transparency and more effective use of tax revenues, pointing to the need for improved services in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They suggested that Nigerians would be more willing to pay taxes if they saw a direct benefit to their daily lives.

Akpabio’s comments have added fuel to an ongoing national debate about the country’s tax system, with calls for both reform and greater accountability in government.