The Oduduwa Integrity Association, in collaboration with the Yoruba Forum (YOF), has strongly opposed the proposed 5% petroleum tax reform, calling it an additional burden on Nigerians who are still grappling with the economic effects of fuel subsidy removal.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the National President of the Oduduwa Integrity Association questioned the fairness of allocating 40% of the proposed tax to the Federal Government and 60% to state governments without any clear provision for the ordinary citizens.
“What percentage is for common people?” the statement asked, stressing that the public continues to bear the brunt of rising costs.
While acknowledging that Nigerians are gradually adapting to the impact of subsidy removal, the group warned against introducing fresh levies at a time when households are still struggling.
“The hardships and suffering emanating from the removal of fuel subsidy are reducing gradually, and average Nigerians are adapting to the situation. We know critically that if President Tinubu had not removed the subsidy, the economy might have collapsed completely. But introducing a 5% petroleum tax now is unacceptable,” the statement read.
The group further criticized government appointees, urging them to consider the daily realities of Nigerians rather than pushing policies that could worsen hardship.
“You should stop that your 5% petroleum tax reform for now. Are you the one who will pay the 5%? We know how much effort is required to explain the fuel subsidy removal to grassroots people in villages and towns across the Southwest,” the group said.
Reiterating their position, the Oduduwa Integrity Association and YOF declared that they would not support the proposed reform, warning it could erode public trust ahead of the 2027 elections.
