Senator Ireti Kingibe has said that many Nigerians are unaware of a tax law she says has already been passed by the National Assembly, warning that it will begin to operate after the 2027 general election.
Kingibe made the remarks while addressing people in the Federal Capital Territory, where she alleged that the law would require everyone to pay 25 per cent of their earnings as tax.
The senator said the National Assembly had already passed the measure, adding that fear of public backlash was preventing Tinubu’s administration from implementing it before the 2027 general election.
Her comments have drawn attention to the country’s tax reforms ahead of the 2027 general election, as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising living costs, economic hardship and insecurity.
The remarks come amid political tensions and protests under the slogan Tinubu Must Go, with critics expressing concerns about the state of the economy and the security situation across the country.
A video of Kingibe’s speech has circulated widely on social media, with viewers sharing the clip and discussing her warning about the potential tax burden.
The statement has raised questions about whether Nigerians would face a flat tax rate on their earnings and how any new tax measures would affect workers, business owners and other income earners.
The Nigeria Tax Act 2025 took effect on January 1, 2026. Under the framework, the first ₦800,000 of annual taxable income is taxed at zero per cent, while the highest rate of 25 per cent applies only to the portion of taxable income above ₦50 million.
This means lower income earners are subject to zero or lower rates, depending on their taxable income, rather than a uniform 25 per cent charge on all earnings.
The law’s commencement date also means the tax framework was already in effect well ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kingibe’s remarks have renewed attention on the need for clear public information about the tax laws, their implementation and the rates applicable to different income groups.
As political activities build towards the 2027 election, the controversy is likely to keep taxation and the cost of living in focus as Nigerians seek clarity on their obligations and the impact of government policies on their household finances.
