The National Chairman of the Council of Ulama of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently review Nigeria’s controversial tax laws, cautioning against policies that could impose further hardship on citizens.
Sheikh Jingir made the appeal against the backdrop of growing public concern over proposed and existing tax measures, which many Nigerians say are coming at a time of severe economic strain marked by rising inflation, high cost of living, and declining purchasing power.
The Islamic cleric urged the Federal Government to adopt a humane and people-centered approach to taxation, stressing that Islam and sound governance both emphasize fairness, justice, and compassion in economic policies. According to him, taxes should not be imposed in a way that overwhelms citizens or deprives them of their basic needs.
“Nigerians are already under immense pressure,” Sheikh Jingir warned. “Any tax policy that goes beyond the strength of the people will only deepen poverty and social tension. Leadership must consider the realities on the ground.”
He advised President Tinubu to consult widely with religious leaders, economists, civil society groups, and other stakeholders before implementing far-reaching tax reforms. Such consultations, he noted, would help ensure that policies promote national development without worsening the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
Sheikh Jingir also reminded government officials that public trust is built when citizens see that sacrifices are shared fairly, urging authorities to first block revenue leakages, reduce wasteful spending, and hold public officials accountable before increasing the tax burden on the populace.
His comments add to a growing chorus of voices calling for caution and transparency in Nigeria’s fiscal reforms, as the Tinubu administration continues efforts to stabilize the economy and boost government revenue.
As debates over the tax laws continue, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the government will recalibrate its approach in line with public concerns and appeals such as those raised by Sheikh Jingir.
