Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has dismissed concerns that the Federal Government’s new tax reform framework could be used to marginalise political opposition or target individuals based on their political affiliations. He stressed that the reforms are driven by national interest, transparency, and institutional accountability.

Adedeji made this known during an interview on ThisDay Live on Arise TV, where he addressed fears that the new tax regime could be weaponised through selective enforcement or politically motivated scrutiny of tax records. He described such concerns as misplaced, noting that the reform agenda is anchored on due process and the strengthening of credible institutions.

Responding to questions about whether the reforms could be used to suppress opposition voices, Adedeji commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demonstrating political courage. “Despite the fact that there is an election ahead, Mr. President has chosen the path of statesmanship rather than politics by continuing with these reforms,” he said.

He explained that it would have been politically expedient to delay major fiscal and institutional reforms ahead of an election cycle, but the administration opted to proceed in order to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal foundations and improve economic governance.

According to Adedeji, the tax reform agenda is aimed at addressing long-standing structural weaknesses in the tax system, improving fairness, and creating a simplified, predictable compliance environment that encourages voluntary participation rather than fear or coercion.

He acknowledged that scepticism in some quarters reflects historical concerns about public institutions, but emphasized that the new framework is designed to reduce discretion in tax administration and ensure that processes are rule-based rather than subject to political influence.

Adedeji said the NRS is prioritising automation, accountability, and stronger governance safeguards to ensure that tax administration is guided strictly by law. He added that rebuilding trust between government and taxpayers is central to the reform process, noting that confidence grows when citizens are assured that tax policies are free from partisan considerations.

He reiterated that while tax reforms often attract political debate, the overarching goal remains economic stability, sustainable public finance, and the development of institutions capable of supporting long-term national growth. According to him, implementation will continue in phases to create a tax environment that supports investment, protects vulnerable groups, and strengthens confidence in public administration while insulating tax processes from political interference.