Should the proposed Executive bill be passed, politicians found guilty of tax evasion will be barred from seeking elective offices.
The plan was made known yesterday by chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee Taiwo Oyedele.
He said an amendment to an existing tax law will be sent to the National Assembly to ensure tax compliance and prevent default by the political class.
Oyedele, who spoke at the 2024 strategic retreat for staff of the Joint Tax Board (JTB) in Abuja, outlined key reforms on tax compliance among politicians and the plan to set up a national tax amnesty programme.
He said a proposed amendment to the existing tax law would disqualify those who fail to meet their tax obligations from running for political office.
Oyedele said: “We’re moving beyond a tax clearance certificate, which can be easily obtained. Effective compliance involves a thorough examination of tax declarations, filings, and payments to determine if a candidate is genuinely fulfilling his tax responsibilities as outlined in the constitution.
“This issue arose during the last election. The argument was that the constitution doesn’t explicitly list tax compliance as a qualification criterion. We’re rectifying this oversight to ensure financial responsibility among those seeking public office.”
Oyedele unfolded plans for a tax amnesty programme later this year titled: the “Voluntary Disclosure or Declaration Program.”
Emphasising the JTB’s role in the initiative, he said: “The term ‘amnesty’ can have negative connotations. However, the core objective is to encourage tax compliance. The JTB, as the leading tax coordination body, is perfectly positioned to spearhead this programme.”
Oyedele reflected on the previously implemented Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) programme, implemented previously, saying that “VAIDS could have achieved greater success if the JTB had been placed at the forefront, rather than acting as one stakeholder among many.”
He added: “I recall a JTB meeting where I asked for a live response to the question of how many members supported VAIDS. To my surprise, over 50% indicated their disapproval. This wasn’t about a lack of desire to collect taxes from evaders; it was about disagreement with the government’s approach.”
“This time around, we’ll adopt a different strategy, ensuring not only the JTB’s involvement but also the collaboration of all stakeholders. We’ll work together to co-create a solution that addresses everyone’s concerns.”
