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The National Chairman of the Council of Ulama of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Ikamatis Sunnah, JIBWIS, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has urged President Bola Tinubu to critically review the ongoing controversy surrounding Nigeria’s tax laws, warning against policies that could further burden citizens.
The Islamic cleric said public discussions and media reports alleging manipulation of the Tax Acts have remained unclear to many Nigerians, creating anxiety and confusion among the populace.
Addressing President Tinubu directly, Mr Jingir appealed for clarity and caution in the handling of the tax reforms.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the sake of Allah, this issue between you and journalists—we do not know their own story, and we also do not know that of the government. Please look into it carefully,” he said.
He warned that if the allegations that the tax laws would worsen the hardship of Nigerians were true, the government should reconsider its approach.
“If it is true that these taxes will harm the people, then do not go into something that you may not be able to get out of,” the cleric cautioned.
Mr Jingir stressed that Nigerians should not be subjected to policies that would deepen their suffering, noting that governance must be guided by compassion, justice, and accountability.
“We are servants of Allah. Do not place upon us a burden heavier than we can bear,” he admonished.
The JIBWIS leader also reminded the President of the transient nature of political power, urging humility and a sense of responsibility in leadership.
“Before now, you were not the President, and by the will of Allah, one day you will no longer be the President,” he said.
Mr Jingir’s remarks come amid growing public debate over Nigeria’s tax reforms, with critics expressing concern that the measures could worsen the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians, while the Federal Government maintains that the reforms are necessary to improve revenue generation and strengthen the economy.
