Akabueze Seeks Higher Taxes For Wealthy Nigerians

The directo-general of the budget office of the federation, Ben Akabueze has stated that rich Nigerians must be taxed appropriately in order to enhance revenue generation.

Akabueze made this remark on Monday in Abuja at the launch of the World Bank’s report titled, ‘Nigeria public finance review: fiscal adjustment for better and sustained results’.

He explained wealthy citizens should be made to pay taxes equal with their earnings.

“We need to tax the rich. We have extremely wealthy people existing side-by-side with extremely poor people. I describe it as ‘elite conspiracy’ not to distribute a fair share of the nation’s resources,” Akabueze said.

“If you own a private jet, that is fantastic. If you buy one for yourself, buy one for the country by paying 100 percent tax on it. This is not an area of debate.

“Certain sectors that are growing very well also need to pay taxes. The creative and media– you have all these folks assaulting us daily with their show of their new cars.

“I don’t see any other option. We have to tax the rich. They should pay taxes commensurate with their earnings”, he said.