Prosperity will not come by taxing poverty – Peter Obi
Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said prosperity cannot be achieved by taxing poverty, warning that policies which place heavier burdens on struggling citizens will only deepen hardship. He made the statement while reacting to ongoing discussions around taxation, economic reforms, and the rising cost of living in Nigeria. Obi stressed that government policies must be designed to protect the poor and support productivity rather than squeeze people who are already barely surviving.
Obi explained that sustainable economic growth comes from expanding opportunities, supporting small businesses, and creating an environment where citizens can earn decent incomes. He argued that when people are pushed further into poverty through excessive taxes and levies, consumer spending drops, businesses suffer, and the economy weakens. According to him, governments should focus on growing the economy first before seeking to increase revenue through taxation.
The former governor also called for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds, noting that Nigerians are more willing to support reforms when they see clear evidence that resources are being managed responsibly. He urged leaders to prioritise policies that promote job creation, education, healthcare, and infrastructure, saying these areas are critical to lifting people out of poverty and building long-term national prosperity.
Obi’s remarks have resonated with many Nigerians who are grappling with inflation and reduced purchasing power. Supporters say his comments reflect the daily realities of ordinary citizens, while the statement has further fuelled debate on how best to balance revenue generation with social protection in the country’s economic planning.
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