President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the new tax laws, set to take effect next year, will provide significant benefits to poor and low-income earners as well as entrepreneurs.
Represented at the 2025 Senator Ajimobi Roundtable by the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr. Zacheus Adedeji, Tinubu sought to allay public fears regarding the implementation of the reforms.
He emphasized that Nigerians have no cause for apprehension, stating, “The laws bring good news for the poor, low-income earners, as well as small businesses.”
The roundtable, held in collaboration with the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies at the University of Ibadan, focused on the theme: “Pathways to Electoral Credibility through Political Parties: Re-engaging Citizens and Restoring Trust in Democracy.”
Tinubu encouraged citizens to continue investing their trust in Nigeria’s democracy, noting that leaders must make decisions that may initially cause discomfort but ultimately drive long-term development.
While paying tribute to the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Tinubu described him as a committed progressive who contributed immensely to democratic governance.
He recalled Ajimobi’s achievements as governor, including an infrastructure revolution through urban renewal programs and the restoration of peace in Oyo State.
“Senator Ajimobi served the people of Oyo State and Nigeria with distinction, uncommon dedication, and zeal,” he said.
Tinubu further urged members of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State to unite and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing this as the best way to honour the late senator.
Delivering the lecture at the roundtable, Professor Ibrahim Gambari warned that declining voter turnout reflected a loss of confidence in the system.
He expressed concern over the drop from 69 percent turnout in 2003 to just 25 percent in 2023, stressing that democracy thrives when citizens see themselves first as Nigerians, beyond ethnic, religious, or political affiliations.
Gambari highlighted voter apathy, lack of internal party democracy, distrust in party leadership, and unfulfilled promises as persistent challenges to electoral credibility.
He cautioned against election rigging and rejected military rule or one-party dominance as viable alternatives.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his deputy Bayo Lawal, described the roundtable as a timely platform to honour Ajimobi’s legacy and address critical issues central to Nigeria’s democratic development.
He emphasized that rebuilding trust in democracy requires sincerity, accountability, and inclusive governance from political leaders.
Earlier, Mrs. Ajimobi thanked President Tinubu for his loyalty and continued support for the roundtable.
She urged APC leaders and members in Oyo State to unite and strengthen the party to secure victory in the 2027 elections, calling it the most fitting tribute to the departed statesman.
