Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has described President Bola Tinubu’s new tax policy as consistent with the ideals of progressive governance, insisting that it protects low-income earners while placing a higher burden on those who earn more.

Oshiomhole spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he disclosed that he was among the lawmakers who supported the tax bill that was recently signed into law.

According to him, the policy is designed to ensure fairness in taxation by exempting low-income earners while requiring higher contributions from wealthier individuals and corporations.

“The facts on the ground show that President Tinubu’s tax policy aligns with the values of a progressive government. It is a system that taxes more those who earn more and offers relief to those who earn less,” he said.

Despite public criticisms, President Tinubu had reaffirmed in December 2025 that the new tax laws would take effect from January 1, 2026. The President explained that the reforms were not meant to impose arbitrary taxes but to drive structural reforms, harmonise tax administration, protect citizens’ dignity and strengthen the social contract.

Oshiomhole defended the policy, noting that taxation remains the backbone of governance worldwide.

“Governments do not earn money on their own. Citizens earn income, and the government taxes those earnings, whether individual or corporate. That is how the state generates revenue,” he said.

He added that fears expressed by organised labour were misplaced, stressing that no average worker under the Nigeria Labour Congress earns as much as ₦1 million monthly.

“For salary earners, this tax policy is progressive. Working families will benefit more under this new regime,” he stated.

On Value Added Tax (VAT), the former Edo State governor said ordinary Nigerians have little to fear, as VAT mainly applies to non-essential and luxury items.

“Everywhere in the world, VAT is paid on non-food items. Nigerians pay VAT in London, America and Dubai, yet some resist paying it at home,” he said.

Oshiomhole urged Nigerians to support the implementation of the new tax policy, describing it as necessary for national development and effective governance.