The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), an organization with ECOSOC consultative status, expresses its deep concern regarding the proposed tax legislation under consideration by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the National Assembly.
As a body committed to safeguarding human rights and promoting social justice, we find it imperative to address the potential human rights implications of this proposed legislation.
1. Increase in Value Added Tax (VAT):
The proposed increase in VAT from 7.5% to 15% by 2030 is likely to have severe consequences on the socioeconomic well-being of Nigerians, particularly those living in poverty. This move will disproportionately affect the vulnerable segments of society, including women, children, and those in rural areas, by escalating the cost of essential goods and services.
The resultant inflationary pressure will deepen inequality and exacerbate poverty, directly violating Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which recognizes the right to an adequate standard of living.
2. Impacts on Education:
The proposed cessation of funding to critical educational agencies like TETFUND, NITDA, and NASENI threatens the accessibility and quality of higher education in Nigeria. Education is a fundamental right recognized under Article 26 of the UDHR.
If this policy is implemented, it will likely deprive millions of young Nigerians of access to affordable education, further marginalizing low-income families and undermining national development.
3. Responsibility of State and National Representatives:
It is alarming that many governors and national assembly members, particularly those from the Northern regions, have not actively opposed this potentially harmful legislation. Leadership comes with the responsibility to protect the interests and welfare of the people.
By failing to act decisively, they risk breaching Article 21 of the UDHR, which emphasizes that government authority must be based on the will of the people.
IHRC Recommendations:
As a global human rights organization, we make the following recommendations:
1. Immediate Review and Revision of the Proposed Legislation:
The Nigerian government must conduct an extensive consultation with stakeholders, including civil society organizations, religious leaders, and grassroots communities, to ensure the proposed tax policies do not infringe on the rights of citizens.
2. Protection of Education and Vulnerable Groups:
Funding to critical educational institutions must not be compromised. We urge the government to explore alternative means of revenue generation that do not threaten the right to education or burden the already impoverished citizens.
3. Increased Accountability:
Public officials, particularly governors and legislators, must prioritize the interests of their constituents. We call on them to reject any legislation that exacerbates poverty or inequality.
4. Promotion of Inclusive Dialogue:
The government should facilitate open and inclusive dialogues with affected groups to address their concerns and foster trust in the legislative process.
Our Call to Action:
The IHRC-RFT emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues. Nigeria, as a democratic nation, must uphold the principles of fairness, equity, and justice enshrined in the UDHR.
We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and all stakeholders to act in the best interests of the Nigerian people.
Conclusion:
We reaffirm our commitment to promoting and protecting human rights across the globe. The IHRC-RFT will continue to monitor developments and collaborate with relevant actors to ensure that justice and equity prevail in Nigeria.
Signed:
Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu
Country Director, IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter
