Security consultant Charles Omole has raised concerns about the security consequences of Nigeria’s new tax laws, saying the Federal Government failed to properly examine how the reforms could affect public safety.
Speaking on The Platform, an annual Democracy Day programme, Omole said the impact of the new tax regime may become clearer from January 2027 when enforcement becomes stricter.
President Bola Tinubu signed four major tax reform bills into law on 26 June 2025. They include the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service Act and Joint Revenue Board Act.
Omole argued that the government introduced the reforms without carrying out a detailed security review. He warned that many Nigerians could respond to the new tax measures by keeping more cash at home instead of using their bank accounts.
According to him, such a shift could create fresh security challenges, including an increase in robbery and other crimes targeting households.
“Right now, people are not reacting because enforcement has remained light. Wait until January and you will begin to see the impact,” he said.
Beyond the tax reforms, Omole stressed that security should not rest solely on the shoulders of the police, military or other security agencies. He said government decisions in areas such as education, land management, urban planning, the economy and justice can either strengthen or weaken national security.
He explained that poor policies can fuel conflict, encourage extremism, create spaces for criminal activity and push frustrated citizens towards violence.
Omole urged leaders to view security as a shared responsibility across all levels of government rather than a task for law enforcement agencies alone.
Engagement Question
Do you agree with Omole’s warning that the new tax laws could create security challenges, or do you think the reforms will benefit the country in the long run?
