Arewa forum debunks ‘new vehicle tax’ claim, urges public to ignore misinformation
…backs Oyedele, Adedeji on reforms, revenue transparency The Arewa Socio-Economic Forum (ASEF) has dismissed as false claims of a newly introduced vehicle tax by the Federal Government, stating that its
…backs Oyedele, Adedeji on reforms, revenue transparency
The Arewa Socio-Economic Forum (ASEF) has dismissed as false claims of a newly introduced vehicle tax by the Federal Government, stating that its independent findings show no such policy exists.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its National President, Aminu Kuta, the forum said its investigation into the widely circulated claims found no involvement by the Nigeria Revenue Service or the Federal Ministry of Finance in the purported levy.
According to ASEF, the viral message urging vehicle owners to pay unspecified charges through unofficial channels is misleading and designed to create confusion among Nigerians.
“The Arewa Socio-Economic Forum wishes to categorically state that there is no new tax on vehicles as being falsely circulated in some quarters. Our findings confirm that neither the Nigeria Revenue Service nor the Ministry of Finance has introduced any such policy,” the statement read.
Kuta said the forum conducted a thorough review and engaged relevant stakeholders before arriving at its conclusion, stressing that the clarification was necessary to curb public anxiety and the spread of misinformation.
He advised Nigerians to rely on verified government platforms for policy updates, warning that fabricated messages and fake websites are increasingly being deployed to exploit citizens.
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Beyond the clarification, ASEF urged citizens to remain vigilant and monitor the implementation of existing tax policies, particularly as the Federal Government continues to roll out fiscal reforms aimed at improving revenue generation and distribution.
Kuta noted that recent reforms are beginning to yield measurable outcomes, especially at the subnational level, where increased Value Added Tax allocations are strengthening state finances.
He said less economically advantaged states are already experiencing improved fiscal capacity, enabling them to meet basic obligations and invest in critical sectors.
“The ongoing tax reforms are beginning to show positive outcomes. We are seeing increased VAT inflows to states, and more importantly, a more equitable distribution that supports less economically advantaged states,” he said.
The forum also commended the Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, for what it described as a reform-driven approach to fiscal policy, and praised the Chairman of the NRS, Zacch Adedeji, for strengthening tax administration and improving public communication.
“We salute the Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, and the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, for their commitment to building a tax system that works for the country. Their efforts are helping to restore confidence and improve revenue outcomes,” the statement added.
The Forum stressed that while reforms may take time to fully mature, consistent implementation and public cooperation remain critical to their success.
It reiterated the need for transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in sustaining progress within Nigeria’s fiscal framework.
“As stakeholders in national development, Nigerians must not only support reforms but also hold institutions accountable through informed engagement. This is how we build a system that is both fair and effective,” Dr Kuta said.
The Arewa Socio-economic Forum concluded by urging continued collaboration between government institutions and the public, noting that credible information and responsible civic participation are essential to strengthening trust and advancing economic stability.
