The government must be sincere in its efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. It’s time to stop paying lip service and take concrete actions. Everything is not politics; the welfare of the people should be the government’s top priority
By Dayo DaSilva
Nigerians woke up to another shocking levy imposed by the federal government, the electronic money transfer levy imposed on customers of Fintechs platforms.
This is coming from a government which is failing in its duty to protect its citizens and provide basic necessities like infrastructure, security and stable fuel prices among other needs.
The latest levy, a N50 charge on electronic transfers above N10,000, is already sparking outrage and frustration among citizens who already are struggling with multiple taxation, poverty, hunger and unemployment. The removal of oil subsidy no doubt, is already having a great impact on the citizens who now find it so hard to transport themselves or eat three square meals as the prices of every commodity continues to soar.
Maybe, the All Progressives Congress, APC led administration needs to be schooled on the primary functions of a government. The Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration needs to understand that it’s major work is to ensure the well-being, safety, and prosperity of its citizens. At present, the Nigerian government seems to have abandoned this fundamental principle, instead prioritizing revenue generation through excessive taxation.
The Electronic Money Transfer Levy Regulations, 2022, introduced by the Finance Act, 2020 to be enforced by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), starting from September 9th is another example of the government’s obsession with taxation.
The levy, which targets electronic transactions, will only exacerbate the suffering of Nigerians, who are already burdened by various taxes, fees, and levies.
Fintech companies like OPay, Moniepoint, and PalmPay from 9th of September will start charging the N50 levy on transactions above N10,000, citing compliance with FIRS regulations. This fee introduction follows the Federal Government’s efforts to generate revenue from electronic transactions.
The question remains: what has the government done to improve the lives of Nigerians? The answer is clear: nothing! Instead, the government continues to milk its citizens dry, imposing levies and taxes without providing basic services or infrastructure.
This APC led administration at the helms of Nigeria’s affairs must recognize that its role is to serve the people, not the other way around. It is time for a change in approach, one that prioritizes the needs of Nigerians and works towards creating a better future for all
Tinubu’s government and a tale of two realities
While President Tinubu’s administration speaks of reforms and stringent measures to curb corruption and reduce the country’s debt, its actions tell a different story. The government’s rhetoric about austerity measures and belt-tightening has not been matched by the lifestyle and spending habits of those in government.
Despite the country’s economic woes, the presidency has continued to indulge in lavish spending, acquiring new luxury cars, jet, and yacht. The latest addition to the presidential fleet is a state-of-the-art yacht, reportedly worth billions of naira. This excessive spending has raised eyebrows and sparked outrage among Nigerians, who are struggling to make ends meet.
The president’s penchant for luxury is not limited to his official duties. His personal life is also marked by extravagance, reportedly with frequent trips abroad while he stays in high-end hotels. The cost of these indulgences is, of course, borne by the Nigerian taxpayers.
This disconnect between the government’s words and actions has led to widespread criticism and skepticism. How can a government that claims to be committed to reducing corruption and waste continue to indulge in such extravagance? The answer, it seems, is that there are two sets of rules: one for the ruling elite and another for the masses.
The reforms and measures announced by the government are nothing more than a smokescreen, designed to deflect attention from their own excesses. While Nigerians are expected to tighten their belts and make sacrifices, the ruling class continues to live large, oblivious to the suffering of the people.
It is time for the government to practice what it preach. If those in government are serious about reforms and reducing corruption, they must start by setting an example. The Nigerian people deserve better than a government that says one thing and does another.
Looking at the present situation in the Country, the government’s priorities are misplaced. Instead of focusing on improving the lives of its citizens, it continues to burden them with taxes and levies, while spending extravagantly.
Tinubu’s federal government must understand that a thriving economy is built on the back of a prosperous people. To achieve this, the government must create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish. This includes supporting small and medium-scale enterprises through grants and loans, as well as investing in agriculture, production, and productivity. By doing so, the government can stimulate economic growth and create jobs, thereby improving the standard of living for Nigerians.
It is only when both the micro and macro economies are improved that the government can justify taxing its citizens. But as it stands, the government’s continued taxation of already overburdened citizens is nothing short of extortion.
The government must be sincere in its efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. It’s time to stop paying lip service and take concrete actions. Everything is not politics; the welfare of the people should be the government’s top priority.
This APC led administration at the helms of Nigeria’s affairs must recognize that its role is to serve the people, not the other way around. It is time for a change in approach, one that prioritizes the needs of Nigerians and works towards creating a better future for all.
Only then can the government justify its existence and earn the trust and respect of its citizens. Until then, the people will continue to suffer, and the government’s credibility will continue to plummet.
It’s time for the government to rethink its priorities and focus on the welfare of its citizens. Enough is enough President Bola Tinubu; Nigerians cannot continue to suffer under the weight of excessive taxation and poor governance, please do something!
Dayo DaSilva (arpa, amncs) is a Mass Communication Expert, Brand Strategist and Growth Manager from Ogun State.
Email: dsv123ng@yahoo.com
•Opinions, positions or thoughts expressed here are personal and strictly of the writers/authors and not The Daily Crucible.
